Over $60,000 has been raised for the Bishop family following the alleged murder of Joshua Bishop.
Joshua, who went missing on May 27, was confirmed dead after human remains were found on June 28 following a search of a Westmeadows address.
A 27-year-old Sunbury man has been charged with his murder.
Following the news, the Sunbury community has been reeling from the loss of one of their own.
The Justice for Joshua Bishop Facebook page – formerly named Find Joshua Bishop – ran by his uncle Daniel De Vivero released a statement on Joshua’s death.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news, our beautiful blue-eyed blue has been found. Sadly, it wasn’t the outcome we had prayed for, but he is home,” he said.
“Joshua’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the love, support and tireless efforts that went into finding Josh.
“Joshua was the kind of soul who always put others before himself and a smile that would light up the room.
“Fly high, our forever 23.”
East Sunbury Football Club announced that the club will not be playing any senior men’s or women’s matches on Saturday, July 5 in memory of Joshua, and out of respect for the Bishop family.
“It is with immense sadness and heavy hearts that we extend our deepest condolences on behalf of the entire East Sunbury Football Club to the family and loved ones of Joshua Bishop, whose life was tragically taken under heart-breaking circumstances,” the club said in a statement.
“We send our love, strength, and support to Kristie, Travis, Joshua’s brothers and all extended family, friends, and the wider Thunder community during this unimaginably difficult time. No words can truly capture the grief and pain of such a loss, but please know our hearts are with you all.
“Joshua was a bright, kind, and much loved young man whose presence will be deeply missed by many. In times like these, we are reminded of the strength and unity of our community, a community that holds each other close in moments of sorrow and need.”
Sunbury Lions Football Netball Club, Westmeadows Football Club, Kelior Park Football Club and more extended their sympathies, as well as Sunbury MP Josh Bull.
The GoFundMe is still accepting donations to go towards the Bishop family while they navigate this difficult time. To donate: gofundme.com/f/find-joshua-bishop
