James Albert Bishop of Brandon, FL, was born June 17, 1939, in Waukegan, IL, and passed into Glory on April 4, 2026. He is survived by his loving wife, Suzanne; children Lynn Bishop (Steve Bailey); Eric (Stacie) Bishop and two precious grandsons, Nicholas (13) and Alexander (9); and brother-in law, Bill (Helen) Ackerman. Born in Waukegan, IL, to parents Lucille and Alvin Bishop, Jim spent his high school years in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and graduated from Georgia Tech with a BEE degree.

Most of his career was spent in the aerospace/defense industry. As Site Manager for Northrop Corporation at Langley Research Center in Newport News, Virginia, he received a NASA Achievement Award for his service and teamwork that culminated in Apollo 11’s first landing on the moon. He established a Sperry Univac site in Newport, RI, supporting programs with the US Air Force, Navy, and DoD – and served as Vice President of the Newport Navy League, the civilian support group for the arriving young international officers.

Jim also owned “Bishops News & Variety” -- a small retail store in Newport. Moving to Florida, Jim shifted his interests to Real Estate and Appraising. A favorite activity was walking his dog, Toby, while chatting with neighbors and enjoying the beauty of God’s creation. And he was an enthusiastic supporter of Southeastern Guidedogs (now Dogs Inc). As a faithful member of St. Andrews United Methodist Church (SAUMC) in Brandon, he enjoyed serving on the Welcome Committee, Board of Trustees, and Community Dinner Kitchen Ministry Team – and the special times spent with his “Faithbuilders” group in Bible study and fellowship.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at SAUMC in Brandon, Florida, on Friday, April 24th at 11 am. In leu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to SAUMC (Pastors Discretionary Fund), PO Box 6162, Brandon, FL 33508.

https://saumclife.churchcenter.com/giving/to/memorials-bishop