Emmett Lamar Bishop, affectionately known as Lamar, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a long illness.

Born in Miami as a twin, Lamar spent much of his childhood with his grandparents, Nell and Will Goodin, in Jacksonville and Wildwood, before the family settled in Sunset Harbor, Summerfield, Florida. He later returned to Miami to work for the railroad, where he met his beloved wife and raised his family in Hollywood, Florida. Coming from a long line of railroad men, Lamar retired early as a trainmaster from CSX. Following his passion for plants and the outdoors, he worked at the University of Florida's biological research station in Davie, Florida, and served as a Master Gardener at the Broward County Extension Office. Upon his final retirement, he and his wife returned to their family home in Sunset Harbor to enjoy their later years together.

Lamar proudly served for many years in the Naval Air Reserves, having joined at the age of 16. He was a Mason for over 50 years and was a Past Master at Wildwood Lodge #92. A member of several local Masonic lodges, Lamar was also a lifelong member of the Scottish Rite, Knights Templar, and the  Mahi Shriners. Strong in his Christian faith, he was a longtime member and Deacon of the Baptist Church—both in South Florida and at Summerfield Baptist Church—as well as a member of the Villages Baptist Church. Lamar and his wife shared a love of bowling, exploring the Everglades, fishing, and raising and showing orchids.

He was the last surviving sibling, predeceased by his three brothers, one sister, and his loving wife, Ann Marie Barnum Bishop. Lamar is survived by his daughter, Lianne A. Bishop, and her partner, J. Steven Sampson. In accordance with his wishes, Lamar was cremated, and it is hoped that both his and his wife's remains will be interred together at a later date at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. A private memorial service will be held in his honor in the near future.

Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449.  Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com .