Edward Sinclair Bishop, better known to his friends as “Mr. B.”, was called home by the Lord on Monday, November 30, 2009. He was born on May 4, 1924 in Brooklyn, New York to Odell and Irving Bishop. He received his formal education in the New York City public schools. Following his graduation from Franklin K. Lane High School as an honor student, he attended Brooklyn College where he was recognized as an outstanding student athlete.
His studies were interrupted in 1943 when he volunteered for military service in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served with the Tuskegee Airmen. After his tenure in the service, he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages and Master Degree in Foreign Languages, Education and Guidance at Brooklyn College.
A chance encounter with a teacher set his path as an educator. He built a solid reputation and record of success, which led to his being tapped to serve as the Assistant Commissioner for citywide youth services under Mayor John Lindsay. Over the course of his career, he worked tirelessly to change the lives of at risk youth and victims of substance abuse for the better. In 1991, he retired from active civil service duty as Manager of the Child Welfare Administration of New York City’s Human Resources Administration.
He extended his record of leadership and outreach as Commissioner of the New York Football Conference and owner of the Brooklyn Cardinals semi-pro football team. Mr. B. and his very best friend, Benjamin “Big Ben” Glascoe, who was owner of the Golden Knights football team, spent many enjoyable seasons in competition but always with lots of love.
To hold dearly the memory of his long and illustrious life, he leaves his wife, Ernell, one precious son, Edward Jr., (Karri); five stepchildren, Anthony Parker of Rocky Point, North Carolina, Amanda Parker, Cassandra Parker (James), Denise Parker-Jackson (Robert) and Natalie Parker-Reid (Alan) all of Brooklyn, New York, four beautiful grandchildren, Jalen, Ciara, Halle, Jordan, four step grandchildren, Keisha, Anthony, Theron, Andrea, five step great grandchildren and a host of dear relatives and special friends.