Barbara Millar Bishop
Share
Barbara Millar Bishop, 88, Lawrence, KS, passed away at Lawrence Presbyterian Manor on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, two years following a debilitating stroke.
Barbara was born on September 15, 1935, in Hinsdale, IL, the daughter of Neal and Isabel (Naab) Millar.
She is survived by her husband Ken Bishop. Barbara and Ken married on September 7, 1957, in La Grange, IL. Ken is proud of their marriage of 66 years but noted that he and Barb shared a friendship for 71 years, 8 months, 2 weeks and 6 days.
Other survivors include her daughter, Susie McKinney and husband, Scott; and four grandchildren, Kaitlin McKinney, Keegan McKinney and wife, Ashley, Logan McKinney, Liam McKinney, and one great-grandchild, Colton McKinney.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents.
Barbara was devoted to her family and her friends; loved music of all kinds and traveling; and took great joy in continued education, especially with her fellow members of Friends in Council and the KU Alumni Association Endacott Society.
From Barbara, written several years ago on a note titled my obit: “My Lord, what a morning! We’ll meet again. Don’t know where. Don’t know when.”
The family is extremely grateful for the loving care Barbara received from the staff at Lawrence Presbyterian Manor. Memorial contributions may be made in Barbara’s name to the “Resident Council Fund” benefiting the wonderful staff who work so hard for so many. Donations may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
There will be no formal services. However, to view a photo tribute of a life well lived, to post a condolence or for more information, please visit warrenmcelwain.com,
Mr. Bishop, Susie, Scott and family,
Am so sorry to see that Mrs. Bishop has passed. I know how difficult it is to lose your Mom, Susie. I have enjoyed visiting with you, Mr. Bishop, whenever I would see you at Presbyterian Manor while I was checking on my Dad. Please know I hold all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
Tammy Copp-Barta
Barbara Bishop was truly one of the most gracious and charming ladies I’ve ever met. Her love of music was infectious, and her beautiful smile a blessing.
I met Barbara through her good friend Doris Stubeck. When Doris passed away, some friends gathered at Barbara’s home to celebrate Doris’s life. Barbara was such a kind and warm person. Her spirit will be missed. My condolences. Laurie Hart
Losing a mom and grandma is always hard, even when they are sick.
Please know that she was a gracious lady that will always be remembered.
To all of you, she was a gem that will continue to shine.
Such perfect music for that video. Janeal Krehbiel
I knew Barbara because of my friendship with her husband Ken. In the past , they would host several of us “car” friends for a get together around the holidays, Barbara was a really good hostess and most gracious. I know Ken loved her dearly and will miss her so much.
Barbara was such a good friend over many years. I will always remember her hearty laugh and especially her keen interest in the welfare of others. Ken and her family can take comfort in knowing how much joy she brought and how much she will be missed.
Ken and Susie – I am so so sorry for the loss of a woman that can’t really be described with words. Loving and caring are just a few that can describe Barbara. I will never forget the day she walked into the ophthalmologist office. We hadn’t seen each other in years, but the hug she gave me showed the love and caring she had for others. Please accept my sincere heartfelt condolences.
Ken, we feel with you your great loss, and wish we could help in any way. You two were a marvellous couple who had a great life together.
I didn’t formally meet Barbara and Ken until I had retired and joined KU’s Endacott Society. They had been members for many years. She was always welcoming and empathetic to my accounts of adjusting to retirement. Most recently (probably five years ago), I recall her on a visit to Lindsborg, Kansas. Despite failing eyesight, she wanted to see a number of places including the studio-home of a local artist-craftsman (Red Barn). The interior had only the natural light from the windows and doors. The central room was large and inviting. Barbara wanted to linger a bit in the room, but there was no seating. One of the hosts recognized Barbara’s interest in spending a bit more time in the room and brought in a chair to allow her to enjoy the setting. Barbara was charmed by the space and the hosts, who had been introduced a few minutes before, were charmed by Barbara. I like to think her caring personality inspired anyone who met her even for a short time. A fine gift and legacy.
We are so sorry to hear of Barbara’s passing. She was a wonderful person. Our lives were wonderfully influenced by her and Ken. Great people and a wonderful example to follow in our lives. Blessings to Ken and family during these sad times.