John Ralph Bish

John Ralph Bish, 71, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, surrounded by family. Born on November 20, 1952, in Houston, Texas, John was known for his larger-than-life personality and his ability to make lasting connections with everyone he met. Whether through his infectious laughter or his genuine kindness, John never met a stranger and made friends wherever he went. John was a proud graduate of Lutheran High School, where he graduated in 1972. During his time at Lutheran High, he was an active member of the basketball team, showing early signs of his competitive spirit and dedication. John opened Bish Carpet, a retail flooring store in South Houston, which he successfully owned and operated for over fifty years. Under his leadership, Bish Carpet grew to become a trusted name in the community, providing quality flooring solutions to countless families and businesses. The company’s success was a testament to John's hard work, integrity, and commitment to service. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the local business community, Bish Carpet was honored with the Business of the Year award by both the South Houston Chamber of Commerce and the Port of Houston Authority. John’s love for life was evident in everything he did. He was an avid dancer and a karaoke enthusiast, lighting up every room he entered with his joyful spirit. He was hardworking and dedicated, always giving his best in everything he pursued, whether in his career or his personal life. Yet, it was his deep devotion to his family that truly set him apart. As a grandfather, John was nothing short of extraordinary. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, often taking them on special outings that were filled with fun and laughter. John had a way of making everyday moments magical—one of his favorite traditions was taking his grandkids out to dinner and, without fail, treating them to dessert first. It was just one of the many ways he showed his love and made life a little sweeter. In addition to his family, John was deeply charitable, always giving back to his community and supporting those in need. John was elected and devoted two years as councilman for the city of South Houston. His generosity, work ethic, and zest for life left a lasting impact on all who knew him. John is survived by his devoted wife, Sheila, his three children Anthony Roman and wife, Maria, Dallas Dante and wife, Michelle, and Amy Kathleen, his beautiful grandchildren, Camryn Ashley and husband, Ryan, Emma Elyssa, Caleb Anthony, Sofia Mindy, Macey Marie, Audrey Rose, and Jacob James. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and loving friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Martin and Congetta Bish, brother, Robert Todd Bish, and sister, Congetta Marie Bryant. A graveside service and celebration of John’s life will be held on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Congregation Beth Israel Memorial Garden, 1101 Antoine, Houston, TX 77055. Instead of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to John’s Temple, Congregation Beth Israel (https://www.beth-israel.org/giving/tribute-donations/), 5600 N. Braeswood Blvd., Houston, TX 77096; 713-771-6221. John’s legacy of joy, generosity, and devotion to his family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

John Ralph Bish

November 20, 1952 - November 6, 2024