Argusta "Bish" Ishmon

In the loving memory of Argusta "Bish" Ishmon was brought into this world by her mother Lizzie on October 2, 1932 in Saxton, Missouri. She gave birth to 8 precious individuals: Emma Ishmon, Dorothy "Dot" Ishmon, Barbra (Leon) Rice, Joanne Ishmon, Frank Ishmon, Walter "Louie" Ishmon, Leroy (Ella) Ishmon, and Leon Ishmon Jr. Bish also went on to raise Leslie Ishmon and Deon Taylor as her own. As the mother of 10 children, Bish was a nurturer for not only her family but the families in the neighborhood as well. Without a doubt, on a warm summer day, you would see Bish sitting on the porch sipping her sweet tea or eating her black walnut ice cream. If she wasn't sitting on the porch, you would see her walking up and down Winneshiek smiling and waving as the cars passed. Bish always put others before herself. Her desire to provide for her loved ones and friends was exceptional. Bish provided a loving atmosphere for those around her as many people would stop by her home just to say hi and see how she was doing. More often then not, she would say "Child I'm doing alright" and then ask you about yourself. After putting up a strong fight, Bish was the last elder to pass from all of the families that originally moved to Freeport from the south. As a second mom to many of us in town, Bish has taught us all some valuable life lessons that should be cherished. To our surprise, the Lord called his angel home on February 23.2019. She leaves behind a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews to mourn her legacy. She was preceded in death by her mother Lizzie, her husband Leon Ishmon, her two sons: Leon Ishmon Jr. and Walter "Louie" Ishmon, and her grandson Eric Rice. Bish will be laid to rest on Saturday, March 2, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. at Philippians Baptist Church. The visitation will be at this location from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. The burial will be located at the Freeport City Cemetery, and there will be a repast at Philippians Baptist Church to immediately follow. Bish may be absent in our presence, but she will never be absent in our hearts and minds. Her legacy will forever live on and her memories will never be forgotten. At this time, friends and family of Bish, we must keep our heads held high and remember all of the good times; as well as, the valuable words Bish has spoken to us. We love you Mama Bish!