James R. Fleenor, 91, of Richmond, KY passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at the Hospice Compassionate Care Center of Richmond.  He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Katie Scott Fleenor.

A native of Letcher County, Kentucky, Jim was born in the coal mining community of McRoberts to John (Bud) and Minnie Banks Fleenor.  He graduated from Jenkins High School before attending Eastern Kentucky State College.  

Eastern played a pivotal role in Jim’s future.  He earned his degree in education and taught at Lemon-Monroe High School (Ohio) before returning to Richmond where he served as a teacher and administrator for both Richmond Independent Schools and Madison County Schools.  One of the highlights of his career was serving as principal at Madison High School where he excelled as a leader and built friendships with many of his staff and students that continued throughout his lifetime. 

Jim’s ROTC experience at Eastern paved the way to his career with the US Army Reserves where he retired at the rank of Colonel.

Community service, history, and family were among his priorities.  Over the years, Jim served as a Boy Scout leader, Little League coach, and member of Richmond Lion’s Club.  His interest in genealogy led him to many parts of the country collecting history and stories about Fleenor ancestors.  He was most passionate about spending time with family, particularly his grandkids.

In addition to his wife, Katie, and his parents, Jim was preceded in death by four siblings:  John Fleenor, Jr., Harold Fleenor, Bobby Fleenor, and Audrey Fleenor.

Survivors include his daughter, Debbie Frazier (David) of Richmond and his son, Jim Fleenor II (Annette) of Weaverville, NC; six grandchildren, James Fleenor III (Whitley), Travis Frazier (Alexandra), Jessica Forsyth, Jordan Frazier (Danielle), Jackie Horne (Brett), and Tyler Frazier (Nicole); five great-grandchildren, Alexis Forsyth, Clayton Forsyth, Audrey Horne, Katie Frazier, and Malcolm Horne; sister, Glenna Foster (Howard); aunt, Lillian Gilley; and nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, May 31, 2024 at Oldham, Roberts & Powell Funeral Home with Rev. Bill Fort and Rev. Robert Blythe officiating.  Burial will follow in the Richmond Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be James Fleenor III, Travis Frazier, Jordan Frazier, Tyler Frazier, Brett Horne, Anthony Foster, Velmar Miller, and Hubert Broaddus.will be James Fleenor III, Travis Frazier, Jordan Frazier, Tyler Frazier, Brett Horne, Anthony Foster, Velmar Miller, and Hubert Broaddus.