James Talmadge Bishop

James Talmadge Bishop was born January 24, 1925, in Binger, OK and passed away on Friday, June 20, 2014, in Fresno, CA. After graduating early from Tranquillity High School in December of 1943, he left to serve in the United States Navy. He married the love of his life, Norma Lou Smiley in August of 1946. They were married for 65 years before her death in September of 2011. Tal farmed cotton, black eyed peas, and alfalfa in the Caruthers and Fresno areas.

Tal was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was always concerned for everyone's health and happiness. He especially loved his wife's cooking. Tal and Norma enjoyed traveling throughout the United States in their RV, playing cards, fishing, Fresno State Bulldogs, and San Francisco Giants.

Our family wishes to express our deep appreciation to the VA Central California Health Care System; the Department of Veterans Affairs; and the staff of Carrington Pointe Assisted Living, for their outstanding support.

They had four children, Dave Bishop and his wife Gini, Gerald Bishop and his wife Jeannette, Cheryl Robinson and her husband Bill, and Norm Bishop and his wife Susi. Tal was especially devoted to his 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at Lisle Funeral Home on Thursday, June 26, 2014, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

A Memorial Service celebrating his life will be held on Friday, June 27, 2014, at 11:00 a.m.

Remembrances may be made in his honor to any Veteran's organization.