Rodney Lynn Bishop, 70, a longtime resident and local legend of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, passed from this earthly realm into the endless summer, on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, in the midst of loved ones.

Born on September 22, 1953, in Savannah, Georgia, and affectionately known as "Boy", "Lynn", and "Grouchy Old Man", depending on the company he was in, Rodney was known for his wit, humor, quirky descriptors, and love of the beach.  Before declining health curtailed favorite activities, he might be found paddling out at the Inlet, hanging out with friends or standing around a fire wearing his "Osteen clothes", fishing, or engaged in a paint project with one of his siblings.

As a child in Eleuthera, Bahamas, and young teenager in Satellite Beach, Florida, during the heyday of Space Coast surf culture in the 1960's, Rodney cultivated a kinship with the ocean.  When the family moved to Geneva in the late 1960's, and later to Osteen, in the early 1970's, he would hitchhike to New Smyrna Beach, longboard in hand, where he surfed with kindred spirits who would become lifelong friends.  He moved to Sanford in the 1970's, working as funeral technician for Gramkow Funeral Home, and would later pursue a career as an automotive paint and body professional, working for various shops in Seminole and Volusia counties, honing the craft he would later impart to his younger brothers.  Rodney's expertise is even today reflected in several of the family's antique vehicles.  He moved to New Smyrna Beach in the 1980's, amongst many friends in his treasured beach community, where he remained until his untimely passing.

Rodney is survived by his "GRL" and life partner of 32 years, Pamela Jonelle Estes, whose free spirit, easy-going nature, and shared love of the coastal lifestyle complemented him perfectly.  Through decades of joys and trials, she was his companion and ever-present help as his health declined in recent years.  The oldest of five children, Rodney leaves behind parents Alvis and Shirley Bishop, brother Darian Bishop and spouse Tonya, sister Kimberly Bishop, brother Sean Bishop and spouse Rachelle, brother Marc Bishop and spouse Brenda, and a multitude of extended family and friends.  He will also be missed by loyal pup companions Pierre and Harriet Luna.

A celebration of Rodney's life will be held on Monday, December 18, 2023 at 2:00p.m., at Baldwin Brothers Funeral and Cremation Society, 1 N. Causeway, New Smyrna Beach, Florida.  A separate paddle-out ceremony will be held at a later date, TBD.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Save The Waves Coalition ( savethewaves.org ) .