William R. "Bill" Bishop

William "Bill" Richard Bishop, 90, of Lima, Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026.
Bill was born on November 8, 1935, in Berlin, New Hampshire, to Harry Atwood Bishop and Georgia Alvetta (Walters) Bishop. From an early age, he developed a love for the outdoors and adventure that would remain a constant throughout his life.
On June 20, 1964, Bill married the love of his life, Gail Bradford, in Newark, Maryland. Together they built a life rooted in love, family, and shared experiences. In 1968, they settled in Rockville, Maryland, where they raised their children and made their home for 34 years. In 2002, Bill and Gail purchased their retirement home in Ocean Pines, Maryland, where they enjoyed 22 years surrounded by community, coastal living, and treasured memories, before relocating to Lima, Ohio, in 2024.
Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army and went on to dedicate 40 years in civil service with NOAA during which he worked in 47 different states. He received his Bachelor of Science in Geodesy from George Washington University and continued his study of geodetic sciences at the University of New Brunswick in Canada. His career also included helping to build and implement the agency's first computer system, reflecting both his sharp intellect and his deep respect for precision, exploration, and public service.
An avid skier, Bill worked ski patrol in New Hampshire and Germany while overseas, blending his love of the mountains with his natural instinct to help others. He had a lifelong affection for Porsche cars, outdoor adventures, and the simple pleasures of good food, good wine, and good company.
Above all, Bill loved people. He was endlessly friendly, always happy, and never met a stranger. He delighted in conversation, making friends wherever he went, and fully embraced life with warmth and curiosity. Family was at the center of his world, and he affectionately called all of his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter "Tiger," a nickname that reflected both his playful spirit and deep devotion.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; one sister; and his beloved grandson, Jimmy Reyes.
He is survived by his wife, Gail Bradford Bishop, of Lima, Ohio; his daughter, Kimberly Kelly Moore (Shawn), of Lima, Ohio; his son, Matthew Atwood Bishop (Jamie), of Berlin, Maryland; his granddaughters, Katherine Bentz (Matt) of Salisbury, Maryland, and Brigid Bishop (James) of Salisbury, Maryland; and his cherished great-granddaughter, Ember Reyes, of Lima.
The family plans to hold a celebration of Bill's life in Maryland later this spring. Details will be shared at a later date.
Bill's legacy lives on in the many lives he touched-with kindness, laughter, and a genuine love for life. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.