September 26, 1937 – September 8, 2025
Eva Ernestine Thompson Fleming was born in Feds Creek, Kentucky, on September 26, 1937, to Ermel and Emeline (Justice) Thompson. She was the oldest of seven children. Five brothers, Denver, Gene, Rodney, Edward, Bill, and one sister, Elwanda Slone.
Ernestine married her beloved Walter Fleming in 1960. They welcomed two daughters into the world and led a very happy life together. She sadly lost Walter in 1984, whom she always said was her greatest and truest love. She never remarried because she said nobody could compare.
After years of making a home, Ernestine went back into the workforce at Bedford Middle School. There, she made some lifelong friends who easily became part of her extended family. She remained in Bedford after her girls left home because she had such a loving network of friends. She and her friends would go on spontaneous road trips, shopping, attending IU basketball games, visiting, laughing, and generally having a wonderful time. Ernestine’s quick wit, laugh, love of practical jokes, kindness, gentle spirit, and true friendship were gifts that also brought people together. She continued making new friends throughout her years.
She really liked chocolate milkshakes, cheeseburgers, and dogs, probably in that order. To know her was to truly love her.
 She left behind two daughters, Kathy Drehobl and Brenda Buranosky (Dwain). Four grandchildren, Dan (AJ) Buranosky, Matt Buranosky, Michael Drehobl, Emma (Alex) Drehobl, and one great-granddaughter, Indy.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ermel and Emeline (Justice) Thompson, sister Elwanda Slone, and her beloved husband, Walter.
To say the world lost a precious soul on Monday, September 8, 2025, would not be an exaggeration. Ernestine Fleming was the definition and embodiment of strength, love, friendship, and loyalty. She is deeply missed by all of those who were fortunate to know and love her. There is a special place in heaven that holds a significant portion of our hearts.
