James Eugene (Gene) Bishop

James Eugene Bishop passed away early Wednesday morning, October 12, 2016, at the age of 88 years, 4 months and 22 days at his home in Grapeland, Texas.

Gene was born May 20, 1928 at Ezzell, Texas to James Weaver and Fannie Reagan Bishop. He left Ezzell at 16 years of age to work in the shipyards in Galveston. He joined the Merchant Marines at age 17 and sailed all around the world until he was drafted in to the Army, during the Korean War. After his discharge from the service he returned home to marry Wilma Faye Terry, his sweetheart. They were married on January 11, 1953.

During their marriage of 62 years, Gene worked for Brown and Root Construction Company for over 37 years. He and Wilma continued traveling during that time. They lived in 5 states and multiple towns and cities in each one. After retirement, they moved to the Piney Woods of East Texas.

Gene was a devoted, loving husband to Wilma, a proud and wonderful father to his two children Terry and Keith and a loving grandfather to his three grandchildren, Kennedy, J.D. and Reagan. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and wood working. There are numerous hand crafted furniture pieces now owned by his family that are proud possessions. They were crafted and given with love and all show devotion to craftsmanship.

Family was extremely important to Gene. He enjoyed visiting with all his family and was always glad to hear from his sisters and sister in law, his numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members. He also had numerous friends locally and many others made during his years working and time in the service.

Gene joined the Masonic Lodge in 1956 and remained a life time member. Gene loved sharing his stories from his child hood and his time in the Army, Merchant Marines and working with Brown and Root. He was knowledgeable in so many areas and happy to share his information with anyone who asked for assistance. He passed on lessons and skills he acquired during his life with his family, co-workers and friends. We are all fortunate and grateful for the time and knowledge he shared with us.

Gene spent his idle time playing solitaire, enjoying the outdoors during warm weather and watching the wild life in his yard and woods. He made sure the feeders were full for the birds and loved watching them eat and compete with each other. When any of the family was home with him he enjoyed playing dominoes and regularly beating us in the game. On the occasions when he was on the other side he was good natured and ready for another game.

Survivors are daughter, Terry Lynn Bishop Rhame of Longview, Tx., son Keith Bishop and wife Jackie of Grapeland, Tx. Grandchildren Kennedy Nichole Bishop of Marshall, Tx., James Dalton (J.D.) and Reagan Terry Bishop of Grapeland, Tx. Sister Nina Bishop Brown of Salem, Or., and sister in law Billie Louise Terry Yencer. Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents James Weaver and Fannie Reagan Bishop, One son James David Bishop, two sisters Mildred Willis Thompson and Lelia Bishop Horton, and one son in law John Welch Rhame.

He will be deeply missed by all.

Funeral services for Mr. Bishop will be 3:00 pm Sunday October 16, 2016 in the Weches Baptist church with Bro. Davy R. Hobson officiating. Family will receive friends from 2pm to 3pm before the service. Interment will follow in the Augusta Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Augusta Cemetery Association, Po Box 196, Grapeland , Tx 75844

Services are under the direction of Rhone Funeral Home. To view on line, leave condolences, or sign the guest book, go to www.rhonefuneralhome.com.