Bro. Raymond Bishop

Celebration of Life and Legacy of Bishop Raymond George Bishop "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." - 2 Timothy 4:7-8 Raymond George Bishop was born on August 2, 1935, to Mamie Mae Bryant and John Hurley Bishop in Fairhope, Alabama. In the mid-1950s, after receiving the call of God on his life, he left his hometown to embark upon full-time ministry. After evangelizing and pastoring in Goodway, Alabama, his life was miraculously spared in a devastating head-on collision that left him with 342 stitches in his head and a near-death encounter. Following that life-changing event, he made his way to North Mississippi where he met his wife, Frankie Carol Wilson. Together they began overseeing a small prayer group gathering in a house. It wasn't long until this prayer group grew into a congregation, becoming the Myrtle Church of the Lord Jesus Christ. Early services were held in the Masonic Lodge before the church secured property on Main Street in Myrtle. With a vision for growth and a passion for souls, Bishop Bishop led the church to build their first sanctuary. The congregation flourished, growing to over 200 members. Yet the burden and vision for a Christian school and family life center required more space. God spoke to him, promising property in the heart of New Albany. In 1980, construction began on Victory Life Center, and Victory Christian Academy was established. Today, the Victory Campus includes Victory Christian Academy Daycare, Victory Christian Academy, and Victory Church, all located on 10 acres-serving the city of New Albany, Union County, and the surrounding region daily. Bishop Bishop's family is a living testimony of his life and legacy. His children and grandchildren carry forward the mantle of ministry: •Paul and Paula Bishop, pastors of The River Valley Life Center in Lancaster, Ohio •Mark and Sandra Bishop, pastors of Victory Church in New Albany, Mississippi •Thomas Brent and Shanna Bishop of Belden, Mississippi •Dorcas and Tim Hammond, pastors of New Life Apostolic Church in Watkinsville, Georgia He was called Papaw by seven grandchildren, Lindsay (Ben) Williams, Benjamin (Brianna) Bishop, Zach (Lauren) Hammond, Tori (Chase) Carr, Autumn (Elijah) Mayo, Madison (Cody) Kaprowwitz, Christian (Tracy) Bishop and sixteen great grandchildren. He is also survived by his wife of 67 years, Frankie Carol Wilson Bishop and three brothers: John Arvol (Gloria), Ray (Kay), and Myles (Carolyn), all of Alabama. He was preceded in death by his father, John Hurley Bishop; mother, Mamie Mae Bryant; brothers Ricky and Woody; and granddaughter, Brittany Bishop. Bishop Bishop faithfully served the Assemblies of the Lord Jesus Christ in many capacities. He was Assistant Superintendent from 1971–1973 and General Superintendent from 1973–1981. His voice was a steady beacon of truth and leadership, guiding the organization and inspiring ministers and saints across the nation. His influence extended beyond the church. With a heart for his community, he served the town of Myrtle on the Board of Aldermen, earning respect and admiration from all who knew him. "Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing." - Matthew 24:46 Bishop Raymond George Bishop's life was marked by unwavering faith, visionary leadership, and relentless love for God's people. His race is now complete, and his reward eternal. Heaven rejoices, and we echo the words of the Master: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:21 Services for Bishop Raymond Bishop will be held at Victory Church 116 N. Denton Rd. New Albany, Ms. Visitation will be held Friday August 29 from 4 until 7 p.m. with services following at 7:00 p.m. The family request that memorials be made to Victory Christian Academy. United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements. For online condolences and guest registry, please visit www.unitedfuneralservice.com