Robert Gail Fleming was born in March 1937 in Harper Texas to John Alton and Annie Lee Cowsert Fleming. He passed away on May 1, 2020 at the age of 83. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, and brother John Dalton Fleming of Mason.

Robert had a wonderful childhood growing up in Mason County, attending a one room schoolhouse with his brother and cousins until the third grade. From an early age, he learned that faith and family came first, and Robert never forgot, always showing kindness and compassion to friends and strangers.

Robert played both offensive and defensive lineman for the Mason Punchers and graduated as the Valedictorian of his class. He left Mason to study engineering at Abilene Christian College before transferring to the University of Texas. While in Abilene, he met Mary Beth Kelso, the love of his life, and in 1959, they married.

Soon after graduating, Robert was drafted into the Army to serve as a medic in South Korea, and Mary Beth somehow managed to accompany him. Their love and respect for each other, along with unfailing teamwork was an inspiration to many. When the couple returned to Texas, Robert began a 30 year career with the Texas Water Commission in Austin, and MaryBeth gave birth to Deborah and then Darron.

Robert was a founding member of the Highland Village Church of Christ in Austin and served as an elder for decades. His wise, loving leadership and faithful example will be greatly missed.

While he lived much of his life in Austin, Mason was always home.  After his retirement, Robert was able to spend even more time working on his land and enjoying the ups and downs of ranch life.  Robert valued the many close friendships he had within the community of Mason.

Of all Robert's adventures and accomplishments, he was most proud of his children, and nothing brought him more happiness than being "Papa" to his grandchildren. He was never too busy to listen or too tired to help. His children and his grandkids were blessed with years and years of joy and laughter, priceless memories and life lessons.

Robert is survived by his wife, MaryBeth Fleming; his daughter, Deborah Fleming and granddaughter Rachel Baptista of Austin; son Darron Fleming, daughter-in-law Heather Fleming, and grandsons Robert Fleming, Sean Fleming, Travis Fleming and his wife Kyla Fleming of Austin. He is also survived by his cousins Anita Cox of Abilene, Texas, Katy Draper of Mason, Texas; in-laws Anna Kay and Tom Lockridge of San Antonio; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family wishes to thank the brave team of doctors and nurses at Seton Medical on 38th as he battled COVID-19. The family also wishes to thank Dr. James Merriquinn and his staff for the loving care over the many years, and express our sincere gratitude to Dr. Ericka Greene of Houston Methodist Hospital for giving us 10 more years with our wonderful husband, dad and Papa.

Due to Covid, graveside service and burial at Fly Gap cemetery will be private. A public memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make any memorial donations to either the Ronald McDonald House or Highland Village Church of Christ in Austin, Texas.