Kevin James Bishop

Kevin James Bishop of Manchester, VT passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center after a quick but hard-fought battle with leukemia. Kevin was born April 15, 1953, in Bennington VT to the late Henry & Clara Bishop. Kevin attended Bennington area schools until he met and married the love of his life Linda Blake, on September 24, 1971. It was after their marriage that Kevin and Linda began creating the large and loving family that became the central focus of his life.

Kevin was a father like none other to all seven of his children and a proud grandfather to his thirteen grandchildren. His home was the gathering place for all things Bishop. From birthday parties and holiday celebrations to family dinners: whatever the occasion, all were welcome. Kevin’s devotion to his family was unmatched. He was the most loving husband, father, and grandfather.

After his family, Kevin’s next love was music. He was an incredibly talented musician. He found solace and joy in playing the organ at his churches in Rupert. He filled his home with all things musical— organs, pianos, record players, phonographs; music was one of his greatest passions. In addition to his musical gifts, Kevin was an avid reader and historian. Taking after his father from a young age, he was exceptionally intelligent and curious. Kevin’s lifelong pursuit of knowledge was fueled by his interests in literature, history, and ancestry. His passion for learning was a cherished part of his character that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

We can see him now sitting on the beach in his beloved Ocean Park, ME, or Oak Island, NC— covered with an umbrella, reading a book, and enjoying a Twizzler. He will always be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and amazing sense of humor. His warmth and positivity will forever uplift his family and friends.

Kevin is survived by his wife Linda of Manchester; his seven children, daughter Jennifer Bishop (Zack) of Salem, NY, daughter Lana Prouty (Taylor) of Londonderry, VT, son James Bishop of Manchester, VT, son Brian Bishop (Courtney) of Wells, VT, daughter Elizabeth Williams (David) of St Albans, VT, daughter Ashley Spine (Joel) of Southport, NC, daughter Adrienne Perham (Cameron) of Pawlet, VT; his grandchildren, Alexia, Ava, Madeline, Vivian, Blake, Hunter, Anabel, Kylee, Kennedy, Mason, Harper, Beckett, and Eloise; his brother Terry Bishop of Shaftsbury, VT and sister Jill Bishop of Bennington, VT.

A celebration of life for Kevin will be held Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Rupert United Methodist Church in Rupert, VT. Memorial Contributions in Kevin’s memory can be made to the United Methodist Church of Rupert, VT.