James Bishop Jr.

James Alton Bishop, Jr. was the third of six children, born on April 15, 1955, to James and Davola Bishop in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. The sunset of his life was Thursday, May 15, 2025, in Saint Louis, Missouri.

James, affectionately known as “Jimmy,” confessed his belief in Christ at an early age, having been raised by his parents to know and love the Lord. He was a devoted member of First Trinity C.O.G.I.C. under the leadership of Elder DeWitt Hill, Jr. There, he was actively involved in the junior and senior choirs, participated in oratorical contests, played the drums, and was often regarded as a scriptural scholar. During his youth, he also worked alongside his father in the family farming business.

Jimmy graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 1973. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he served honorably as a personnel records specialist. He received the National Defense Service Medal and was honorably discharged in 1976, shortly after the end of the Vietnam War. Later, he was employed at the National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR) as an ammunition specialist.

On December 27, 1979, at the age of 24, Jimmy married Dialietta Renee Williams. Through this union, his life was enriched with a stepdaughter, Shante Renee Williams, and a son, James Alton Williams (Bishop III), born June 20, 1978.

Jimmy was a fun-loving, social butterfly who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His animated sense of humor never failed to bring joy to those around him. He loved spending time with family and friends and valued intellectual conversation.

His earthly journey now complete, Jimmy was preceded in death by his beloved parents, James Alton Bishop, Sr. and Davola Martin Bishop.

He leaves behind cherished memories in the hearts of his loving wife, Dialietta Renee Bishop; stepdaughter, Shante Williams; son, James (Kathryn) Bishop III; grandson, James Courtney Williams; granddaughter, Kaitlin Annette Williams—all of Saint Louis, Missouri. He is also survived by his siblings: Belinda (Michael) Couty of Jefferson City, MO; Charles (Joan) Bishop of Lawton, OK; Beverly (Shawn) Connor of Grand Prairie, TX; Byron Bishop of Pine Bluff, AR; and Cherie (Adam) Humphrey of St. Charles, MO. Additionally, he is remembered fondly by a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many dear friends.