Mars Jean Bishop, 97, of Barrington, RI passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026. Born in Evanston, IL on August 10, 1928, he had an enduring commitment to uplifting others.  He showed an unwavering loyalty to the people he held dear as his nature was defined by quiet generosity. 

In his youth, Mars attended school in Evanston and was recognized by the Niles Township High School as the "Outstanding Senior Boy." He was accepted to Brown University where he graduated in 1949. He would go on to serve as Class of '49 President for decades. Upon graduation, he attended Columbia Business School where he earned an MBA and then achieved the rank of Captain in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War.

In 1954, Mars joined his uncle, Mars Paul Bishop, the first "Mars," at the textile firm of Tillinghast Stiles. While at Tillinghast, he demonstrated exceptional sales skills and in 1968 opened his own textile company, Bishop & Co. Inc., which continues today under the leadership of his nephew, Jeffrey Barton. Retirement was not a calling, and he went to work every day until 96 (and a half) years of age. He served as President of the Association of Yarn Distributors and valued his relationships with his many business colleagues as he built lasting friendships with them.

Throughout his lifetime, Mars contributed to the welfare of his community. He was a regular Sunday fixture at the 8 AM worship service at St. John's Episcopal Church, where he and his wife, Prudy, were married 72 years ago. Mars was a Board Member of St. Andrew's School, Providence Country Day School, and past Chairman of the Barrington Cemetery Commission. He was also a past President of Rhode Island Country Club and a longstanding member of the Squantum Association and the Anawan Club. As a Freemason of the Adelphoi Lodge, he served as Worshipful Master.

He was known for his engaging manner and exceptional wit. As a member of Plantations Trust, an investment club, Mars enjoyed an avid interest in stocks as well as the fellowship of the members. His story telling and humor were legendary. 

Mars and Prudy were blessed with deep friendships throughout the years. He loved a competitive round of golf, and he was equally at home on the tennis court, where he played three days a week until the age of 90 with a close group of friends. His humor and congeniality prevailed. Line calls provided great fun for the group.

Mars is survived by his wife, Prudy (Barton), his daughters, Debbie (Jaime) Wilson of Narragansett, Betsy (John) Harker and son, Mars Jonathan Bishop, of Barrington, RI. He leaves eight dearly loved grandchildren, Holly Wilson Babij, Scott Bishop Wilson, Laura Harker Hankin, Drew Harker, Lindsay Wilson Igyarto, Mars Hwang Bishop, Téa Bishop and Lachlan Bishop. He leaves eleven great grandchildren. Mars is predeceased by his parents, Jean Wittenberg Bishop and Catharine (Sonheim) Bishop, sister, Dona Bishop Lycurgus and brother, David Judson Bishop.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 29th at  11:00 am at St. John's Episcopal Church, Barrington, RI.  Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his name may be made to St. John's Church, Barrington, RI or Hope Health Hospice.