Donald Wayne Bishop

Donald Wayne Bishop, 74, of Madison completed his journey and went home to be with Jesus on Dec. 7, after a very brief illness. He was born Nov. 9, 1941 in Miami to the late J.D. Bishop and Harriet Melton Bishop Fitzgerald. As a young boy, his family moved to Greenville and has remained in Madison County for his entire life. He graduated from Greenville High School. In 1963, he met and married Doris Bass. The two were inseparable and provided a Godly example of marriage for almost 52 years. In 1964, Donald and Doris became charter members of Faith Baptist Church, becoming the third and fourth members. He continued as an active member and deacon until his death. Donald was a machinist by trade and worked most of his career at the Madison Metal Plant. He retired from Stanadyne in Tallahassee in 2007. Donald was a hard worker, but what defined the man was his love for Jesus, his wife, children, grandchildren, and his extended family and friends. A quiet man, but a man that made a difference through a lifetime of serving others with his time, talent, and treasure. Donald is survived by his wife of almost 52 years, Doris Bishop. His daughter and son-in-law, Teresa and Jeff Bayless of Valdosta. His son and daughter-in-law, Don and Allison Bishop of Perry. Six grandsons, Brad, Blaine, Brett, and Benjamin Bayless, Austin and Dawson Bishop. One granddaughter, Dena Bishop. One sister, Pasty and Archie Davis, a brother, Douglas Bishop, brother and sister-in-laws, Edgar and Vera Bass, Buddy and Virginia Murphy, and Lucille Osborne. Three step brothers Jimmy and Rita Fitzgerald, Steve and Babs Fitzgerald, and Donnie Fitzgerald. He also had many nephews, nieces, cousins, family and friends. Visitation will be Thursday, Dec. 10 from 5-7 p.m. and the funeral will be Friday, Dec. 11 at 11 a.m. at Beggs Funeral Home. Burial will follow at San Pedro Cemetery in Madison. Flowers may be sent; or in honor of his love of his church, donations may be made to the Memorial Fund at Faith Baptist Church, 1135 US 90, Madison, FL 32340. Beggs Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements, (850) 973-2258. You may send your condolences to the family by visiting www.beggsfuneral.com.