Wanda Meryl Bishop

Wanda Meryl (Ayers) Bishop, age 84, of Horatio, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord on July 22, 2025, in Little Rock, Arkansas surrounded by loved ones. She was born on October 2, 1940, in Little River County, Arkansas, to Roy Samuel Ayers and Pauline (Klitz) Ayers.

Wanda graduated from Horatio High School in 1957. She held a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master's degree in Counseling. She was a loving mother, wife, sister and Grammie. She was a devoted school teacher for 27 years at Gillham High School, Lockesburg High School, and De Queen High School where she changed countless lives with her passion for learning and belief in every child's potential. Wanda's classroom and house was a second home for many - fostering a community where each student could thrive. Her enthusiasm for reading inspired students and family alike.

Wanda had a deep love for the Lord, that she shared every chance she could. She was a dedicated member of Horatio First Baptist for many years where she was a Sunday school teacher and a leader in the youth group. Wanda's teaching and God fearing spirit made a lasting impact on children, youth, her family and friends - she had a true heart for service to others.

Wanda was full of life, known for her infectious smile and laugh, bringing joy to all those she encountered. She had a love for fun and adventure, which she passed on to her family. Wanda is leaving behind a legacy of selflessness, service and deep faith.

Wanda was preceded in death by her father, Roy Samual Ayers; her mother, Pauline (Kiltz) Ayers; her brothers, Larry Ayers and Elmer Ayers; her husband, Billy Joe Bishop; her son, Billy Joe Bishop, Jr; and her daughter-in-law, Shelli (Altenbaumer) Bishop.

She is survived by her son, James Randall Bishop (Jeannine) of Las Vegas; daughter, Sheri Denise Grove (David) of Little Rock; sister-in-law, Joy Ayers (Elmer); her brothers, Ronnie Gene Ayers (Stephanie) of Crossroads and Jerry Lynn Ayers of Texarkana; six grandchildren, Jaime Rayshel Gannon (James); David John Grove, III (Mallory); Jessica Rose Laffin (Cory); Sara Elizabeth Grove; Taylor Marie Bishop; Grant Edward Bishop; seven great-grandchildren, Braxton James Bishop; Hayden Elizabeth Bishop; Jameson Michael Gannon; Georgia Rose Gannon; Magnolia June Gannon; David John Grove IV; Crimson Randee Laffin, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the Wilkerson Funeral Home Chapel in De Queen, Arkansas with Brother Bill Ashburn officiating.

A family only graveside service will follow at the Horatio Cemetery, under the direction of Wilkerson Funeral home.

Visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service, at Wilkerson Funeral Home in De Queen.

The family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice and her many loving caregivers.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Horatio First Baptist Youth Program, P.O. Box 296 Horatio, AR 71842.

You may leave a condolence online at www.wilkersonfuneralhomes.com