Joan Marie Bishop

On March 5, our beloved mother, Joan Marie Bishop, 87, was called to her eternal home with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her life was a testament to her unwavering faith, steadfast devotion to Christ, and reliance on God’s Word and Spirit. She is now joyfully reunited with her husband of 65 years, Bernard John Bishop, her high school sweetheart and cherished life companion, who passed before her.

Born and raised in Ashley, PA, Joan began a new chapter in the Washington, DC suburbs when she and Bernie married. As a loving mother, she stayed home to nurture and raise their four children before embarking on a fulfilling career in the President's Office at the University of Maryland once her children were grown. She had an eye for beauty in all forms, finding joy in photographing flowers and tending to her cherished garden. These passions brought her solace and fulfillment during her working years and retirement.

Joan’s family was the cornerstone of her world, and her love for them was immeasurable. Her legacy of love and faith lives on in her four children: Mary Jo Yerkes of Sanford, NC; Lori Wenzinger (Ed) of Lexington, SC; Diana Unciano (Conrad) of Herndon, VA; and Bernie Bishop, Jr. (Marya) of Fredericksburg, VA.

She also leaves behind her seven cherished grandchildren: Richard Yerkes (Diana), Eddie Wenzinger, Michael Wenzinger (Emily), Kristin Cash (Jeff), Dr. Eric Wenzinger, Brandon Unciano, and Brenna Bishop. Her legacy continues through her four precious great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy: identical twins Alex and Jacob, sons of Michael and Emily; Amelia, daughter of Brenna Bishop; and her namesake, Lily Joan, daughter of Kristin and Jeff.

Joan’s celebration of life service will be held on Friday, March 14, at 10:30 a.m. at Richland Baptist Church, 2482 Warrenton Road, Fredericksburg, VA. Immediately after, a graveside service will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 3702 Loren Dr., Fredericksburg, VA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lexington Community Hospice House—Agape Care, 128 Library Hill Lane, Lexington, SC 29072.