Johnny Bishop

John Earl Bishop, better known as Johnny of Columbus, MS, passed away at the age of 95, with his daughters at his side on February 2, 2026, at St Dominic Hospital in Jackson, MS.

Born in Birmingham, AL, in 1930, he proudly served 20 years in the US Army from 1949 – 1969, including deployments to France, Germany, and two tours in Korea.

Following his military retirement, Johnny and his wife Polly Bishop moved to Lowndes County, and he began a successful 50 year career in the automotive and RV business. His love of selling cars and RV’s created many friendships throughout Columbus and surrounding areas. Johnny loved to travel, and he, Polly, their daughters, and dear friends Oliver and Helen Phillips spent many years traveling throughout the US and Canada in their RVs. Johnny was an avid story teller, had sharp memory with witty humor, and loved to share his life’s adventures with others. He had genuine concern for others, and loved his pets.

He gave his life to Jesus in 1972 and actively served the Lord in various roles as a past member of Woodland Baptist Church - Columbus, MS and more recently First Baptist Church - Columbus, MS.

He is survived by his wife Adrine Younger Bishop of Columbus, MS, daughters Karan Bishop and Renee Nichols of Gulf Shores, AL, grandson Christopher Nichols (Jessica), two great-grand daughters Riley and Katherine Nichols of Collierville, TN, nephew Hank Vaiden (Carol) and great-nephew Houston Vaiden (Abby) of Hamilton, MS and a host of friends.

He was preceded in his death by his wife of 59 years, Polly Bishop and son-in-law Wayne Nichols.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 12:00 noon at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbus, MS, followed by a service at 1:00 pm, with Bro. Shelby Hazard officiating. Pallbearers will be Mark Bailey, Lynn Dawkins, Houston Vaiden, Dale Parra, Greg Phillips and Ken Phillips.