Local LGBTQ+ journalist Mike Fleming has passed away after his battle with cancer at the age of 59.
Fleming was a writer, editor, and publisher for 27 years, splitting his time up among iconic LGBTQ+ publications like Southern Voice, David Atlanta, and Project Q. He was co-publisher at Project Q during his battle with cancer, before announcing that the publication would be on hiatus in May 2022 after 14 years.
“I met Mike when he moved here over 20 years ago and worked with him at Southern Voice, Project Q, and David,” Jim Farmer, the festival director of Out On Film and long-time LGBTQ journalist, told Georgia Voice. “He was an excellent journalist and editor, a great advocate for Atlanta and its LGBTQIA+ community, and — most importantly — a good friend that we will all miss tremendously.”
Fleming spent 11 years at Window Media, from 1998 to 2009, starting as the publisher of the Houston Voice before moving to be editor at the New Orleans office of Southern Voice in 2001. He began in the Atlanta office of Southern Voice as Arts Editor in 2002 and simultaneously served as editor of David Magazine in 2005 for almost four years. He then became Equity Partner at Project Q Atlanta in 2009.
Along with an inspiring career, Fleming leaves behind a legacy of generosity. Fleming often fundraised for Pets Are Loving Support, an organization giving ongoing care and support to the pets of Atlantans living with disabilities, illnesses like HIV/AIDS, and people 65 and older by covering expenses relating to pet food, basic care, and vaccinations.
“Mike will be missed by so many who may never have met him,” Russ Bowen-Youngblood told Georgia Voice. “His voice and reporting about our community stretch back decades. I will miss his edgy EAV vibe and love for the fringe members of our community. I know his fur babies will miss him. I will miss discussing the latest best shows on TV. He was in so much pain these last few years and he can rest now.”
In a memorial post on Farmer’s Facebook, members of the community remembered Fleming as a hero, a kind soul, a complete champion of queer arts, a lovely man, and a fantastic journalist. Farmer recalled his friendship with Fleming, saying they liked to “talk about pop culture” and “Atlanta gay matters/gossip,” and he could always make Farmer laugh.
Information regarding Fleming’s memorial service is yet to be announced.