William Lenoir Bishop Jr., affectionately known as “Bill,” died on Thursday October, 8th, 2026 in Transylvania Hospital.

Bill was born on October 12, 1935, in Brevard, North Carolina, to William Lenoir Bishop Sr. and Marguerite Axon Bishop. A lifelong resident of Brevard, Bill grew up surrounded by family, sharing his childhood with his siblings Harry, Stan, Dennis, Marguerite, Carl, and Charles.

He graduated from Brevard High School in 1956 and went on to work as a security guard at DuPont Forest, where his dedication to service continued long after his employment. Bill generously volunteered more than 707 hours, to the same business, reflecting his commitment to the community he called home.

On May 17, 1990, Bill met the love of his life, JoAnn Malavenda. After 33 years together, they were married on January 22, 2023, celebrating a love that had grown and endured through the years. Bill embraced their blended family wholeheartedly, loving and proudly raising his own children alongside JoAnn’s children as part of the family they built together.

Bill found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing and hunting, enjoyed watching baseball and basketball, and found comfort and inspiration in gospel music. His faith was an important part of his life, and he was a devoted member of Rock Hill Baptist Church, where he shared in the fellowship and faith of his church family.

Bill’s life was defined by his love for his family, his faith, and his deep roots in the Brevard community. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, cherished memories, and the many lives touched by his kindness and service.

He is survived by his beloved wife, JoAnn Bishop; his children, Brenda and Doc Hoilman of Virginia; Mayron and Sand Bishop of Seneca, South Carolina; Wayne and Robin Bishop of Cedar Mountain, North Carolina; Sharon Bishop of Cedar Mountain, North Carolina; Lenoir and Faith Bishop of Cedar Mountain, North Carolina; Martin and Beth Brigman of Salisbury, North Carolina; Danny and Laurie Brigman of Marshville, North Carolina; and Felicia Brigman of Tiger, Georgia. He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, whose lives carry forward his family legacy. His surviving siblings, Harry, Stan, Dennis, and Arthur, will also cherish his memory.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Lenoir Bishop Sr. and Marguerite Axon Bishop, and his siblings Marguerite Thompson, Carl Bishop, and Charles Bishop.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Rock Hill Baptist Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Bill’s memory.

Bill will be remembered with love for the life he lived, the family he cherished, the faith he held dear, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.