Bill Madison Bishop

Bill Madison Bishop Sr., 90, went to be with the Lord on the afternoon of August 16, at home, surrounded by family.

Bill lived his entire life in Jackson County, except for his enlistment in the US Navy. He quit high school, proudly served on the USS Midway during Midway's World Cruise in 1955, returned to high school and graduated.

Bill was united in marriage to Martha Evelyn Shuler from the Old Ashe Settlement on March 25, 1957. They had three boys, Roy Neal, Brian Lee, and Bill Madison II.

Bill supported his family through 30 years of employment with Waldensian Bakeries (Sunbeam Bread Sylva).

Bill enjoyed his time with the Civil Air Patrol immensely as well as Classic Car "Cruise Ins" but mostly the many lifelong friends met through both of these hobbies.

Even at 90, Bill was constantly pushing the envelope in understanding new technology and putting it to practical use around his home. His quick wit, splendid sense of humor, and giving heart impacted all of those who truly knew him.

In addition to his father and mother, Bill was preceded in death by his son, Bill Madison II, his siblings: Bonnie, William Harley, Edna, Woody Hooper, Daniel Franklin, Neal Jr., Freddie Lee, Grover Corsie, and Milfred Dean.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Martha of Sylva; his sons, Roy (Janet) of Rapid City, SD, Brian (Gladys) of Sylva, and daughter-in-law, Dee Dee Bishop of Sylva; grandchildren, Amanda (Alex) Colby of Tullahoma, TN, Amber Bishop of Rapdi City, SD, Luke (Katie) active duty US Air Force, Dustin of Sylva, and Matthew (Lauren) of Cary. Bill is also survived by one nephew, five nieces, and nine great-grandchildren.

No services will be held via Bill's directive.

A special thank you to Harris Urology and Four Seasons Hospice for their loving care. Bill donated to local charities and benefits including the Community Table of Sylva and Rogers Cemetery Fund. In lieu of flowers, please follow his lead.