Bobbie Jean Bishop

Bobbie Jean Bishop, 94, of Kingsport, Tennessee, passed away on May 5, 2026.

Born in 1932 in Scott County, Virginia, to Owen Franklin Upchurch and Sarah Katherine Flanary, Bobbie moved to the Kingsport area at a young age. After graduating from Lynn View High School, she went on to work as a bookkeeper for Gibbons Lumber Company.

Bobbie was surrounded throughout her life by many people she loved, and who loved her dearly in return. There was a light in Bobbie that naturally drew people to her, and before long, they became like family. She could light up a room, loved to have a good time, and to say she loved shoes would be a vast understatement. Her memory will live on through those fortunate enough to know her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Dr. Keith Speer; her second husband, Joe Thomas Bishop; sister Jeanette Green; brother Jack Upchurch; brother-in-law Ray Watson; and step daughter Brenda Bishop Vaughn.

Left to cherish her memory are her sister, Lois Upchurch Watson; her daughters, Jo Anne Bishop Toliver and husband Kimsey Ray Toliver, and Debbie Bishop Amyx; bonus daughter and caregiver, Terri Thomas; grandchildren, Kimsey Allen Toliver and Chad Thomas Toliver; several special friends; and many other loved ones.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Amedisys for their care and support.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Heritage First Church of God. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Steve Tilley officiating.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 11, 2026 at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made to Heritage First Church of God.