Ricky Brian Bishop, 54, of Ararat, passed away on Thursday, December 1, 2016, at UNC Chapel Hill.
He was born in Surry County, N.C., on October 17, 1962. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He loved his family and the Lord.
He was a 1981 graduate of Patrick County High School. Showing his love to help others, he became a volunteer with the Ararat Rescue Squad, serving for eight years, and was trained in one of the first groups of shock trauma before going back to school to advance his career in medicine.
He graduated from Surry Community College in 1997 with an associate degree in nursing. He was employed by Wake Forest Baptist Hospital for several years.
Bishop appreciated the outdoors where he enjoyed fishing, camping, working in the garden or just spending time with the family. He had a passion for woodworking, building and creating many beautiful pieces. He was a faithful member of Bethel Presbyterian Church in Claudville.
Surviving are his loving wife of 35 years, Sharon Montgomery Bishop; a daughter and son-in-law, Kimberley and Travis Weddle; one son, Michael Brian Bishop; a granddaughter that was the apple of his eye, Arwen Weddle; his mom and dad, Richard and Verlie Marshall Bishop; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Jeanette and Kent Collins and Tracy and Pete Rockwell; one brother and sister-in-law, Frankie and Andrea Bishop.
He was preceded in death by grandparents, Willie and Velma Bishop, and Cannie and Lottie Marshall.
Funeral services were held Sunday at Bethel Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Barry Clement officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery.
He will be greatly missed by everyone. The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the Ararat Volunteer Rescue Squad; the staff at Northern Hospital of Surry County E.D.; Surry EMS and UNC Chapel Hill Medical Hospital for the wonderful care and kindness shown to him and the entire family. A special thank you goes to Dr. Francis O’Brien at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center for the great care over the years.
The family is requesting that memorials be made to Sharon Bishop, 767 Jar Lane, Ararat, VA 24053 to assist with Ricky’s medical expenses.
Online condolences may be made at www.moodyfuneralservices.com.
