Defoy Bishop

Hovah Defoy Bishop, 84, of Haleyville, passed away peacefully Sunday February 23, 2025, at his home. 

He was born March 30, 1940 in Franklin County to Marvin and Cleo Bishop. 

A service to honor his life will be held Friday, February 28, 2025 at Nichols Funeral Home in Haleyville, with visitation from  2-3 p.m. and his funeral at 3 p.m. Burial will follow at Winston Memorial Cemetery. 

Defoy is survived by his daughters, Dr. Kay Bishop (Dr. Mark Fruendt), Sherry Bishop (Keith Jennings) and Shay Bishop; four grandsons, Brandon Hyde (Chloe Ginn), Devin Hyde, Jon Jennings and Nicholai Cleckler; three sisters, Willodean Barley, Geneva Worthington and Judy Frazier; his brother, Rayburn (Sue) Bishop and a host of nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Maria Bishop; his parents, Marvin and Cleo Bishop and sisters, Louise Elliott and Corrine Smith. 

Defoy was a lifelong resident of Haleyville. He was well-known for his athletic abilities while a student at Haleyville High School. He was a member of the 1958 and 1959 State Football Championship teams. Defoy was awarded a scholarship to play football at Perkinston Junior College in Mississippi, where he met his wife, Maria. In 1976, he graduated from the University of North Alabama, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. In 2006, he was inducted into the Winston County Sports Hall of Fame for his achievements in football. Defoy worked many years in the local mobile home industry. He later earned his CDL license and spent many years as a truck driver before his retirement. He enjoyed hunting, politics, studying history and spending time with his family. His kindness, wisdom and humor will be greatly missed.