April Bland Bishop

April Bland Bishop, a beacon of love and joy, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2024, in Woodruff, South Carolina. She was born on August 7, 1960, in Akron, Ohio, to the late Leo and Carol Bland and grew into a woman whose laughter and warmth filled every room she entered.

April’s life was a tapestry of strong family ties, enduring friendships, and a genuine passion for life’s simple pleasures. Her love for sports was unparalleled, serving as a cornerstone that defined her as an active member and supporter of recreational and community sports. She was particularly known for her unwavering support of Hillcrest High School teams. April carried this same enthusiasm into her work at Milano's in Simpsonville, SC, where she was a cherished member of the team for 20 years.

Her adventurous spirit was as vast as the ocean she loved to visit. April’s love for travel took her to many beaches and casinos, where she found joy in the thrill of new experiences and the soft whisper of the waves. Her laughter was a gift she shared generously, and her humor brought light to even the darkest of days.

April was the beloved mother of James Clarke, whose children Haley, Landon, and Cash will miss their grandmother's boundless energy. Her son Robert Joel Smith, daughter Justine Duron and husband Anthony, and their children Bryce and Madilynn will forever cherish the moments spent in her loving embrace. Michael Chester, his wife Amy, and their children Emerson, Faith, Gabriel, and Hope; Jacob Chester, his wife Katie, and their children Eli, Addison, Braelen, and Oakland; Leo Chester, his wife Amber, and their child Haisley; and daughter Harley Chester and her children Mason, Avery, and Bonnie, will all hold dear the memory of April's infectious zest for life.

She was a sister who brought laughter and joy to Leo Bland and his wife, Candy, of Ohio, Michael Bland of Pennsylvania, Lorelei Weathers of South Carolina, and Susan Andrews and her husband, Brian, of Illinois. Her thirteen nieces, nephews, twenty-six great-nieces, great-nephews, and even two great-great-nieces and nephews were blessed to know her love and humor. April also leaves behind a dear friend, Michael Waters, who became like another son to her through their shared moments and memories.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing April will remember her as a loving, adventurous, and funny soul who embraced everyone with open arms. Her presence was a comforting force, and her ability to love unconditionally made her a cherished figure in the lives of many. Her laughter will echo in the hearts of those she touched, and her spirit will continue to inspire laughter and love in the community she so adored.

April Bland Bishop's life was a celebration of joy, family, and friendship. As we bid her farewell, we take solace in knowing that her legacy will live on through the lives she touched and the countless happy memories she created. Her departure leaves behind a void that can never be filled, but her spirit will forever remain a guiding light for her loved ones.