Mary Lee Thompson Bishop, 78, was born to Clarence R. Thompson and Stella C. Britton Thompson on July 8, 1944, in Big Spring, Howard County, Texas. Mary spent her childhood and school years in Big Spring.
She married the love of her life, Wally Bishop December 23, 1960. After spending four years in Alameda, California where Wally served in the U.S. Navy, they moved to Arlington, Texas. They relocated to Fairfield, Texas August 1973. Mary was involved in church work and various community activities, including running for city council. She did not win the elections but was always a winner in many aspects. She was a great cook, had an eye for interior decorating and an incredible green thumb. Mary was a longtime member of Church of Christ, where she taught preschoolers and had a gift of hospitality.
Mary is survived by her husband of 62 years, Wally; daughters Tammy Smith and Marianne Gragson (Keith); granddaughter Bradleigh Taylor (Felicia); grandson Richard Gragson; sisters in law Sharon Bishop and Vernell Thompson. Also, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She is preceded in death by her mother and father, two brothers Clarence Earl and Robert Wayne.
Visitation will be 10:00 am – 11:00 am Thursday, January 12, 2023, at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 11:00 am Thursday at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home Chapel. Graveside service will be 2:00 pm Thursday at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Athens, Texas. Pallbearers will be Joe Don Curry, Keith Gragson, Bradleigh Taylor, Sid Fryer, Ralph Billings, Richard Gragson.
In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Groesbeck Church of Christ 201 S. Ellis St. Groesbeck, Texas 76642 or Freestone Cancer Support Group.
