Ralph Bishop

Ralph Bishop

Ralph Bishop, former mayor of Russellville, died February 15 at age 66.Bishop had served 10 years in city government, including time on the Russellville City Council and serving two terms as mayor.

He was a native of Russellville and a member of North Highlands Church of Christ.He had served in the United States Army and was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.He was appointed by President Carter as U.S. Marshal for the Northern District of Alabama.At the time of his death, he was a member of the Board of Control for the Retirement Systems of Alabama.

Bishop is survived by his wife, two sons and four grandchildren.

Alphonsa Byrd

Alphonsa Byrd, former member of the Troy City Council, died March 6. Byrd, who served on the council from 1985 to 1996, was the first black male elected to a council position with the City of Troy.

He taught in the Troy City School System where he retired after 31 years of service.He was a member of the Alabama Education Association, National Educational Association, Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society and the New South Coalition.