Vernon R. Bishop

Vernon R. Bishop, 96, longest living native and oldest resident of Santa Rosa Beach, Fla. passed away on May 13, 2019. He was born to Edward and Fanny May Bishop on April 4, 1923. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Loyce Bishop; his son, Michael Bishop; one great-granddaughter, Emily Steinmeier and brothers, Robert, Bernard and Donald. 

He is survived by son, Terry Bishop and wife, Linda; his daughter Jennifer Bishop Steinmeier, husband Len; great-grand children Dalton and Olivia [Steinmeier]; one daughter-in-law, Carole Bishop and numerous nieces and nephews.

Vernon was a WWII Veteran, enlisted in 1942-1945 European Theater, 1st Army Group, which was dissolved during the crossing of the English Channel to France. Upon returning home, Vernon opened VR Bishop Grocery Store in Santa Rosa Beach. He later leased a service station in Frangista Beach and owned a second station in Destin, Fla.  He was instrumental in organizing and directing the South Walton Mosquito Control District. He helped organize the South Walton Volunteer Fire Department  and was a volunteer Walton County Sheriff Deputy.

He was a member of the Sandestin Lions Club, American Legion where he served as post commander; helped [develop] Cessna Landing, Ed Walline Park and Legion Park. As a testimony to his faith, Vernon helped to build three Baptist churches in the South Walton community.

A time of visitation will be held 2-3 p.m., Sunday, May 19, 2019, at South Walton First Baptist Church at the Bay; 24388 Highway 331 South, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Sunday, May 19, 2019 at South Walton First Baptist Church at the Bay, with Dr. Walt Campbell officiating.

Graveside service will follow immediately after, at Gulf Cemetery at Highway 393 South, Santa Rosa Beach, FL.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to South Walton First Baptist Church at the Bay.


[Source: The DeFuniak Springs Herald, May 15, 2019, Page 5B]

[Burial: Gulf Cemetery, Santa Rosa Beach]