Obituary • 05-13-16

Edward Dean Bishop, or “Pastor Dean” as he was known to his church and friends, died April 20, 2016 at Willow Bend Nursing Center. He was the former pastor at White Rock Community Church.
Pastor Dean was born in Mena, Ark., and received his ordination at First Baptist Church in Mena. He earned a bachelor of arts degree at the University of Arkansas, and continued his studies in Bible and psychology at Baylor University in Waco.
In his youth, he was an accomplished golfer and he worked as a golf professional for many years. He was also a licensed airline pilot and a man of adventure. Those who knew him heard many stories of his younger years.
Pastor Dean was a charter of member of White Rock Community Church, and served as a deacon in its first year. He then served as associate pastor and interim pastor, and also worked with the White Rock Friend’s Ministry and the church’s Visitation and Outreach Programs. In 2004, he was named pastor emeritus.
Pastor Dean was a mentor to those in recovery, and a member of the Ryan White Planning Council during its early years in Dallas. He lived his later years as a passionate preacher about God’s inclusive love for all.
He was preceded in death by his life partner, Glen Eades; his mother, Kathleen (Holt) Bishop; his father, Col. Jesse Eugene Bishop; and his brother, Lt. Colonel Eugene H. Bishop. He is survived by his cousin, Evelyn Davis, and her husband, Ben; niece, Margaret Kay Denton, and her husband, Terry; and several great-nephews. He will be fondly remembered by the congregation that loved him dearly along with his formed family and caregivers, Jo, Norma Jean, Todd and Daniel.
Pastor Dean’s Dallas “family” gives thanks to the staff of Willow Bend and Agape Hospice Care for their presence and care in his last months.
A celebration of his life is scheduled at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 14 at White Rock Community Church, 9352 Garland Road. Memorial contributions can be made to the church to honor his legacy of leadership.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition May 13, 2016.