By Shavonne Walker

shavonne.walker@salisburypost.com

Charles “Ray” Fleming, the owner and operator of Fleming Candy Co. in Salisbury, was identified as the victim in a fatal crash Saturday on Goodman Lake Road.

Fleming, 80, was traveling in his Nissan pickup in the 4900 block of Goodman Lake Road, off Bringle Ferry Road, when the truck apparently left the highway and struck a tree. Officials said Fleming was wearing his seat belt, and neither excessive speed nor alcohol were factors in the single-vehicle collision, which occurred about 2:30 p.m.

Fleming Candy Co. has been a staple in the community for 80 years, selling not only an assortment of sweet treats but fishing equipment, collectible sports cards, lighters and knives as well. Fleming’s parents, Glenn and Pearl Fleming, started the business in 1935, when it was located on Council Street.

The company built a store and warehouse in the current location, South Main Street, in 1966.

A visitation for Charles Fleming will be held from 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday at the Summersett Funeral Home and a funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Summersett Memorial Chapel.