Donald Francis Bishop

Donald Francis Bishop, 88, of Ford, Virginia passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 7, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilton Napoleon Bishop, Mary Young Barnes Crichton; stepfather, John R. Crichton; daughter, Cathy JoAnn Bishop; and son-in-law, Richard J. Freeburn Sr.

Francis was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He started working at age 17 in construction, eventually retiring after over 50 years of dedicated service. He loved fishing and hunting in his early years and in his later years, you could always find him in his wood shop building or repairing wooden toys, signs, cabinets, and furniture. He enjoyed listening to country and bluegrass music. Francis had a great sense of humor and loved to joke.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Christle Eley (Mayton) Bishop; son, Donald Keith Bishop (Sheila); daughters, Ann B. Morrissette (Allen) and S. Lynn Freeburn; stepson, Harold H. Mayton III (Mary); stepdaughter, Christle Ann Silcox (Chuck); many grandchildren and great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Some of his devoted friends were Robert “Bob” Nelson (Cathy), Alan Harver (Debi), Mike Melvin (Pam), and Wayne Lingerfelt.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to the charity of your choice.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Crater Road Chapel of E Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, in the Mausoleum of Southlawn Memorial Park, 1911 Birdsong Road, South Prince George, Virginia 23805. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior (12:00-1:00 PM) in the Mausoleum. Online condolences may be registered at ealvinsmall.com