Jean Fleming, Countess of Cassilis (1553/4–1609) was a Scottish noblewoman and courtier at the court of James VI of Scotland, and a survivor of domestic violence.
The couple had two children, Anne, born in 1590 and who died in 1609, and John Maitland, a judge who became President of the Parliament of Scotland and of Privy Council.
In December 1587 the poet William Fowler dedicated his Triumphs of Petrarke to her, and a woman "E. D.", perhaps Elizabeth Douglas of Temple-Hall (Ormiston), contributed two sonnets in her praise.
[4] The account, held by the National Library of Scotland, includes a payment to Alexander Oustean, a wealthy Edinburgh tailor who supported the royal marriage.
[11] Maitland was allowed to return to court in September 1593, but the English ambassador Robert Bowes mentioned the queen's continuing antipathy towards her, "she cannot hitherto well brook his wife".
[14] The age disparity aroused considerable scornful comment in the Scottish court, but Jean's wealth ensured the continued status of the couple.
[17] Kennedy was offered a post as Treasurer in 1599, but declined, fearing the cost of the appointment in terms of anticipated loans to a needy James VI.
[24] Jean Fleming died in Edinburgh after a period of illness on 23 June 1609 and is buried in St Mary's Collegiate Church, Haddington.