Velma Jean Bishop-Hyman was the fifth child to the late Sam & Mable Bishop Sr. in Marshall, Texas. At an early age she accepted Christ and was baptized at her local ministry. Her dearest childhood memories were helping her mom and oldest sister prepare dinner for the family, which is how she develop the love for cooking. Velma received her education at Elysian Field ISD and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Marshall.
She later moved to Dallas with her oldest sister. One day while at home she received an unexpected knock at the door from an insurance salesman. While his purpose was to sale insurance, he found himself mesmerized by Velma's beauty. Two years later she joined in holy matrimony with her sweetheart J.C. Hyman. The couple were happily married for fifty-nine years, and during her illness he served as her around-the-clock caregiver.
Velma and her husband successfully worked together in real estate. She was employed with Mobil Oil Company and became one of the trainers, working there for many years and ultimately retiring from the company. Upon her retirement she dedicated her later years to the care of her beloved grandchildren.
Velma was a devoted member at Greater Progressive Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. JJ Raven. She worked faithfully as the President of the choir, and taught Sunday school. Many years later, she joined Greater Mount Hebron Bible Church, under the leadership of Rev. Fred Conwright where she served until her health declined.
Velma loved her family and enjoyed family gatherings. She played an integral part of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren's lives. Velma had many loves including listening to gospel music, attending church functions, watching court TV shows, cooking, traveling and playing bingo. She was also a part of bowling leagues and competed in the High Handicap-Series, which she won several awards.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Bernice, Catherine, Lois and Juanita and her only brother Sam Jr.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her husband J.C. Hyman, her son Rodney Deon Hyman (Angela); three grandchildren Jasmine Wilson (Brandon), Captain Cameron Hyman (ShaCora), Alexis Hyman; two great grandchildren, Brandon II and Valerie; as well as her sister, Mary Williams age 94.
