Tracy "Gene" Bishop

Tracy “Gene” Bishop, age 81, of the Morgan City Community in Marshall County, Alabama, passed away peacefully on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 15, 2025. Born in Clanton, Alabama, on June 8, 1944, Gene was the cherished son of the late Tracy Lincoln Bishop and Ila Mae Nelson Bishop. Gene’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to faith, family, and community. He shared more than 60 loving years of marriage with his beloved wife, Gloria Jean Morris Bishop. A proud veteran, Gene served with honor in the Alabama National Guard for several years, embodying the spirit of service and patriotism. With a passion for honoring those who served, Gene founded the Cost of Freedom Veterans Museum in Arab, preserving the stories and sacrifices of local veterans for generations to come. He continued his dedication to public safety first as a firefighter with the City of Huntsville, then as a driver with the Redstone Arsenal Fire Department, from which he retired. Gene also gave generously of his time as a volunteer fireman with the Brindlee Mountain Fire Department. Gene was deeply rooted in his faith, serving as a deacon at Brindlee Mountain Baptist Church, displaying kindness and steady leadership. His commitment extended beyond the church walls, as he served on the cemetery committee, ensuring the respectful upkeep and remembrance of loved ones past. He also supported and participated in various mission outreach activities, including mission trips to Uganda, East Africa. Gene was also a devoted Alabama fan, always cheering on his team with enthusiasm and pride, sharing the excitement of each game with friends and family. Tracy “Gene” Bishop will be remembered for his selflessness, steadfast faith, and lifelong service. His legacy of love and dedication will be forever honored by his surviving family including his wife, Gloria Morris Bishop; daughters, Toni Bishop Strihafka and Kristy Bishop Blackburn; grandchildren, Tracy Alan Strihafka (Danielle) and Erika Turner; great grandchildren Cabela, Dallas, Kairi and Avery; and his sister, Norma June McDonald. Gene is preceded in death by his father, Tracy Lincoln Bishop and his mother, Ila Mae Nelson Bishop. Services for Gene will be Friday, July 18, 2025. Visitation will be at Brindlee Mountain Chapel from 11:00am until 12:45pm. Graveside service will be 1:00pm at Union Grove Cemetery in Morgan City with Brother Ken Galyean officiating. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Tracy Strihafka, Billy Griffin, Bo Wireman, Matt Farley, Billy Breedwell and Jesse Kilgo. Special thanks to Shannon Ditto and Steve Shaver for their help during this time. Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel entrusted with arrangements.

Tracy "Gene" Bishop

June 8, 1944 - July 15, 2025