Obituary: David L. Bishop
David L. Bishop, cherished husband, devoted father, and loving Pop, passed away on Saturday February 28, 2026 leaving a legacy of warmth, kindness, and unwavering love. He was married to the love of his life, Debbie Wetherington Bishop, with whom he shared countless memories, laughter, and a deep bond that inspired all who knew them.
David was the proud father of three wonderful daughters: Daisie Hill, Abigail B. Craft, and Emilie Philyaw. He welcomed his sons-in-love Ricky, Brian, and Ryan into the family with open arms, embracing them as his own and nurturing strong, supportive relationships that were rooted in respect and affection.
As a Pop, David was adored by his grandchildren: Dylan Hill and fiancé Kassidy Batchlor, Brody Hill, Kolby Hill, Callie Craft, Layna Craft, Kiptyn Craft, Gabe Philyaw, Lydia Philyaw, and Greyson Philyaw. He was known for his gentle spirit, his playful nature, and his willingness to share wisdom, encouragement, and love. His grandchildren will remember him for the joy he brought into their lives, the stories he told, and the values he instilled.
David’s life was marked by his deep commitment to his God and Savior, his family, his generosity of spirit, and his servants heart. He will be remembered for his integrity, his quiet gentle spirit and his unwavering faith. Those who were privileged to know him will forever cherish the memories and lessons he shared.
He leaves behind a family who loved him dearly and a community enriched by his presence. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the hearts and lives of his wife, children, sons-in-love, grandchildren, and all those who were touched by his kindness.
David L. Bishop’s life will be honored and celebrated by those who carry his memory forward. May his spirit continue to guide and inspire us all.
God, through his Son, Jesus came to earth. Fully God, fully man, the only perfect human. Dave lived to show the love of Jesus in everything he did, while not perfect he lived to be more like Jesus every day.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Aurther and Eleanor Bishop; brothers Jim Bishop and John Bishop; sister, Jerri Bishop; his father who raised him, Walt Johncox; and honorary parents, Bob and Helen Lucas.
In addition to his immediate family, Dave is also survived by his mother who raised him, Donna Johncox; honorary daughter Dawn Edwards and husband Harry; siblings Carol Starkey and husband Don, Karen Wright, Ruth Peifer, Bonnie Ceiger, Dottie Allen, Bob Bishop, Mike Johncox and wife Sandy, Jeff Johncox and wife Chris, Jill Lyons and husband Ed, Raymon d Johncox and wife Cindy; honorary brother, Rob Lucas.
Please help us celebrate Dave’s life on Saturday, March 7 at 10:00 AM at Tabernacle Free Will Baptist Church, 1003 W New Bern Road, Kinston NC, Pastor Cody Mansfield officiating. A time of loving the family will follow the service with interment at 2:00 at Pinelawn Memorial Park.
Memorials may be made to the youth of the Tabernacle.
Dave was welcomed into the arms of Jesus as He spoke “Welcome home my good and faithful servant” Dave would want you to know Jesus as your Savior today.
Garner Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
On-line condolences may be sent to garnerfuneralhome.com
