Ronald Joseph Bishop, Jr.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ronald Joseph Bishop, Jr. on September 6, 2026, at the age of 50.

After being diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer in March, Ron fought with unwavering courage and determination to try and beat the disease. He was able to enjoy his 3 final bucket list items which included: watching the South Allegheny High School Baseball Team make it to the quarterfinals of the WPIAL playoffs last spring, going on a family vacation to Sandbridge, Virginia in June and celebrating his 50th birthday surrounded by family and friends at the O.A.R. concert at Stage AE in July, where he met the band and got a shout out during their closing song.

Ron was born on July 22, 1976, and from the time he was born he played baseball with a passion shared by his father and lifelong idol, Roberto Clemente. From Little League to McKeesport Area High School to the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, he played every inning like it was the World Series.

Post college, Ron’s professional career included a successful decade in Maryland where he worked in finance. His talents were shared with Wells Fargo Financial, Training Pro, and BOMI International and he earned the distinction of Sales Leader from 2002-2004. While in Maryland, he began coaching for the Cal Ripkin Sr. Foundation where he started mentoring young athletes.

He eventually returned home to McKeesport and made coaching a priority. Over the years, he worked for McKeesport Area School District, Lawn King and Pennsylvania American Water and those jobs afforded him the flexibility to coach high school baseball for McKeesport and later at South Allegheny, where he would finish out his coaching career among the most caring baseball family one could ask for.

Ron is survived by his parents, Ronald and Janice Bishop, and sisters Kristen Keleschenyi (Robert) and Brandy Evans (Justin). He had great pride for his four nephews, Nicholas, Noah, Connor and Nolan, and his niece, Nora Leigh. Ron was honored to be the godson of Patrick and Rita Joyce.

Ron made lifelong friendships with teammates and coworkers. He was an amazing coach and watching him instruct young athletes was an example of watching someone do what they were born to do. As his kindergarten teacher Mrs. Jefferson once said, “Ron is a born leader.”

He had a generous spirit, a great sense of humor and a love for baseball that enriched his 50 years. His competitiveness on the golf course was a sight to behold, and if you’ve golfed with him, you understand. He was an amazing storyteller, and rarely would you have a conversation with Ron that didn’t include a good belly laugh.

Should friends desire, please consider donating to the future Ron Bishop Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund to benefit South Allegheny High School athletes. If you would like information on how to donate to the fund, once it's established, email kbishop25@hotmail.com.

Family and friends are invited to honor Ron’s memory on Thursday, September 10, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 7:30 p.m. at Strifflers of White Oak Cremation and Mortuary Services, Inc., 1100 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131 (Sue Striffler Galaski, supervisor, and Adam Striffler Galaski, funeral directors, 412 678 6177).

To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.strifflerfunerlhomes.com