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1963 - 2013
Devon Williams Bishop, dedicated wife, mother, daughter, sister and dear friend, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2013. She was 50.
Born on August 17, 1963 to Harry and Jane Williams, Devon grew up in Claremont attending Sycamore Elementary, El Roble Intermediate and Claremont High School, where she directed and performed in many theatre productions. She will always be remembered for her beloved role as "Mary Poppins."
Devon continued her education at the University of Utah, where she received her B.A. in theater. She was the recipient of the Kennedy Center National Acting Award and The Victor Jory Award. After graduating, Devon moved to Hollywood where she met actor/musician husband John Bishop, while they were performing in a play together. They married in Claremont in 1990.
Devon continued to act and dance, earned her Screen Actors Guild card, and performed in several guest starring roles on popular TV shows. Devon’s desire to share her love of the arts led her to become an instructor of Movement for Actors at Chapman University and at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She continued to expand her knowledge of the entertainment industry working in business affairs at New World Entertainment and Tri-Star Pictures. The unique combination of Devon’s talent, skills and experience culminated in the formation of Players Project Talent Management where she worked diligently as a talent manager for John and a select group of actors for the last 12 years.
John and Devon created a family with the births of their two beautiful girls Fiona and Ivy and settled in La Crescenta. Devon enjoyed volunteering with the Meet the Masters art program at the girls’ elementary school and swimming daily at the Crescenta Cañada YMCA. Above and beyond everything else, Devon treasured her role as a loving mom.
Upon learning of her breast cancer, and the fact that one in eight women suffer from this awful disease, Devon was inspired to help others by bringing light and awareness to the subject. In addition to taking on her own journey, Devon partnered with photographer Catherine Money to create “One In Eight,” a photo exhibition to empower women and educate all who would listen. (http:// oneineightphotos.com)
Devon was thrilled to ride on the Vera Bradley Float for Breast Cancer Awareness in the 2009 New Year’s Day Tournament of Roses Parade. She thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to cheer on and honor other breast cancer survivors.
“I’ve never witnessed anyone who battled this disease with such bravery and grace,” re?ected a dear childhood friend Susannah Hough. “She was the epitome of strength and grace. She shared her humor, intelligence, bright smile, talent, and warmth with all who were fortunate enough to know her.”
Devon is survived by her husband, John and their two girls, Fiona, 11, and Ivy, who is 8. She also leaves her father Harry Williams and her three sisters: Robin Williams-Rooke, Kim Littlefield, Bryn Caisse and their families. She was preceded in death by her mother Jane Williams.
Devon fought to survive, to live. She leaves this world as a hero with dignity and knowing that she was completely loved. Many thanks to the doctors and especially the nursing staff at Huntington Hospital and City of Hope, South Pasadena. And heartfelt gratitude to our loving friends and family.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to: Bishop Girls College c/o Wells Fargo Bank; account #1393091648 Routing #122000247, Montrose Branch, 2434 Honolulu Ave., Montrose, CA 91020. Call (818) 249-6146 for more information.
A celebration of Devon’s life will be held at the Neighborhood Unitarian Church at 301 N. Orange Grove Blvd. Pasadena on Sunday, December 8th at 2 p.m.
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Georgette Bochkor (Winkley) (1980)
Devon was my neighbor and my friend growing up on Baughman in Claremont for many years. In the later years a quick smile and a wave 'hello'. My most sincere and deepest condolences to your family. RIP Devon.Alia Selke (1979)
Devon was a dear friend.
Our friendship began in elementary school with children's theater and mime. She had a natural talent for making up and performing hilarious pantomime skits. I loved creating and performing mime with her. What a unique way to get to know and love someone!
In high school she was such a gifted and dedicated actress, dancer and singer. She poured her essence into each performance. She was also a great student--she took hard classes, applied herself, and relished learning. She was always so impressive and dazzling in every one of her pursuits.
When she was 17, we travelled through Europe together. What a joy to travel with her!
If you were fortunate enough to know Devon, you were blessed.
-- Alia Selke, class of 1979