James Bishop, long-time track handicapper and publicist at Suffolk Downs, died May 24 from cancer at his home in Revere, Mass. He was 56.
Bishop’s handicapping analysis in the track program was read with great interest by the Suffolk faithful for most of the last two decades. Affectionately known as “Bish,” Bishop began his career at the East Boston oval in the 1970s working at the test barn. He set the morning-line odds for part of the 1980s and served as a chart caller for Equibase at both Suffolk and Rockingham Park in the early 1990s.
“Bish was one of those people who made being part of the track community truly memorable,” said Chip Tuttle, chief operating officer of Suffolk. “He had a unique perspective on life and a wonderful sense of humor that was rooted in his experience as a handicapper--that you're likely to lose more than you win but that you should enjoy the experience either way.”
Bishop is survived by his mother, Flora.
Visiting hours are 4-8 p.m. May 28 at the Vertuccio Home for Funerals, 773 Broadway, Revere. Procession from Vertuccio at 9:30 a.m. May 29, with funeral service at 10:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 133 Beach St., Revere. Burial to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett, Mass. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Restoration Fund at Immaculate Conception Parish, 22 Lowe St., Revere, Mass. 02151.
