James Bishop

James (Jim) Andrew Bishop passed away on January 19, 2016, in Safford, AZ, with his loving family by his side. A graveside service was held on Tuesday, January 26, 2016. Jim was born in Paragould, Arkansas on February 23, 1937 to Andy and Mary Bishop. In 1946, the family moved to Morenci, Arizona. Jim attended school in Morenci and graduated from Morenci High School with the class of '57. Jim went to work immediately at Phelps Dodge Corp. until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served with the 3rd infantry division and was stationed at Fort Hamilton in New York. Before being honorably discharged, Jim was asked to reenlist. He replied, "I'm sorry, but I have to get back to work, I have a job waiting for me." Jim returned to work for Phelps Dodge Corp. holding many positions between his first at the carpenter shop and his last as Surface Department Supervisor. He enjoyed working at Phelps Dodge until his retirement in March of 1997, after nearly 40 years of employment. Throughout his life, Jim enjoyed automobiles and airplanes. In 1999, Jim earned his pilot's license which was a goal he had for many years. Jim then purchased an airplane, a Beechcraft Bonanza, which brought him much enjoyment and kept him busy during his retirement years. Safford Regional Airport became his new home and it was there that he made many friends. He was lucky to have called these individuals at the airport friends because they are great people with amazing character. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Andy and Mary Bishop, his daughter, Sheila Rene Bishop, and his sister, Edna "Tootsie" Harris. He is survived by his sons, James Brent Bishop and Gary (Francie) Bishop, his daughter, Shauna Bishop, his brother, Jerry Bishop, his sister, Barbara Jane Sutton, five grandchildren, Ashley, Stephen, Ryan, Sydnie and Natalie Bishop and two great-grandchildren. A great man has departed us; we will miss him and will always love him.