Gloria Bishop, 87, of Madison, passed away Wednesday January 21, 2026. Gloria was born June 1, 1938, to Wilson and Lillie Mae Owens of Lincoln County Tennessee outside of Park City. The family moved to Huntsville, then Birmingham, but eventually settled back in Huntsville. As a schoolgirl in Huntsville, Gloria enjoyed lounging with her friends at the city swimming pool and picked cotton off Bob Wallace to allow extra money to buy gifts for her friends. After graduation from Huntsville High School in 1956, she started working as an assistant for local attorney J. D. Carroll. In 1976 Gloria began her career with Huntsville City Schools. She held several administrative positions and retired in 2000 as Registrar at her alma mater.
Gloria and Walter enjoyed camping and traveling with family and friends, which included several trips to Hawaii and Europe with former classmates and friends and living in Italy in the early 1960’s. Gloria enjoyed a long relationship with the neighborhood bridge club which continues to this day. Gloria was an active member of the Chrysler Women’s Club for many years. Recent travels tended towards South Carolina to enjoy time with grandchildren.
Gloria was preceded in death by her parents; husband of over 50 years, Walter Bishop, Jr.; and sister-in-law, Imogene Stone (John).
Survivors include son, Walter David Bishop (Susan) of Irmo, South Carolina; daughter, Sharron Lynn Bishop of Madison; brother, Jerry Owens (Donna Sue); brother-in-law, James Bishop (Peggy); and sister-in-law, Doris Williams; and grandchildren, Drew Bishop (Amber) and Carley Lisle (Gordon).
Gloria was loved by her many friends and family.
Visitation will be Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Laughlin Service Chapel. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Dr. Tommy Bolan officiating. A brief graveside service to follow at Maple Hill.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (ALZ.ORG) or charity of your choice.
The family would like to thank the staff at Home Instead, Christy Care, Regency-Pathways, Huntsville Hospital, and family and friends who have assisted over the years.
