James "Jim" William Bishop

James William Bishop (“Jim”). having completed 78 years and 5 days making his way through the turns of life on this side of the grass, peacefully passed from this life under the wonderful care of Big Bend Hospice, in Tallahassee, Florida. Jim was comforted in his passing by the presence and love of his two children, his son James Bishop of New York, his daughter Michelle Bishop of Montana, and his nephew Michael O’Rourke of Tallahassee. Jim’s parents and four of his siblings pre-deceased him. In addition to his children Jimmy and Michelle, Jim leaves behind two well-loved grandchildren, Genevieve Lily Bishop of North Carolina and Max Callahan of Montana; three sisters, Sue Lewkowitz of Georgia, Genevieve R. Bishop and Chris O’Rourke of New Jersey; three remaining aunts, Theresa Woods of New Jersey, Marguerite Barre of Massachusetts, and Jean Render of North Carolina; and a magnificent contingent of cousins, nieces & nephews, and even grand-nieces & grand-nephews.

Jim had a small circle of friends with whom he shared his last years and we remain grateful to them for their steady fellowship. With almost no family living nearby, Jim managed to remind the rest of us periodically that we are all still part of each other’s lives. An unexpected package would arrive (think: a 5-lb box of Good & Plenty, a childhood favorite for some of us). It was Jim, reminding us that distance does not have to separate us, regardless of whether we spread across the country or wander and plant roots in Australia. Whether on the east coast, the west coast or someplace in between, whether in the US or in Grenfell or Sydney Australia, whether side of the grass or the other, we are all one family. We will continue to make our way through this journey of life – some seen/others not seen, but all somehow present with us.

Jim moved to Tallahassee after retiring from a career in the US Air Force, concluding his service with years as a Technical Sergeant. The record of Jim’s USAF retirement lists many medals, awards, and commendations. As a Technical Sergeant, Jim was a Non-Commissioned Officer, a member of the senior enlisted personnel, those who are considered essential leaders because they ensure the proper execution of Commissioned Officers’ strategies and commands, training and leading troops on the ground. This was a work he loved, an opportunity for which he was truly grateful.

The pride Jim felt in his Air Force service was on full display when Big Bend Hospice assumed care of Jim less than 12 hours before he died. Veterans associated with Big Bend Hospice honored Jim’s service by conducting a Ceremony of Valor at his bedside, in the presence of his children and nephew. That service was captured by video and shared with the family that could not be present. After pledging allegiance to the flag and to the republic for which it stands, the Airman’s Creed was read, words of thanks were expressed, and symbols of Jim’s service were presented. The Ceremony of Valor concluded with a formal salute to Jim by his fellow veterans. Jim, however, still wanting to have the last word, pulled up his oxygen mask to say a return “Thank You.” He then mustered all his strength to forcefully salute his fellow veterans. It was a powerfully moving moment.

A few hours later, Jim’s earthly journey peacefully concluded. Those who remember Jim with kind thoughts and wishing to contribute something in his memory are invited to consider the Air Force Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program.

https://www.woundedwarrior.af.mil/

A graveside service with military honors will be held at Tallahassee National Cemetery, located at 5015 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32311, on January 7, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.