Isreal Fisher III of Pensacola, FL, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
What follows is a brief look at the life his family wishes to share.
Isreal held deeply to the Baptist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
The community of faith holds its own well — and Isreal was held.
With heavy hearts but grateful spirits, we share the passing of our beloved husband and father Isreal Fisher III (lovingly known as "Chip"), who left us on May 1, 2026, at the age of 76. Born July 20, 1949, Isreal spent his life surrounded by those he cherished, always striving to bring warmth, laughter, and support to those around him.
Isreal was the son of Isreal Fisher II and Lily Ruth Head, both deceased. On October 7, 1967, he married the love of his life, Katie Longmire Fisher, and together they created a home filled with joy for over 58 years. As a devoted father, Isreal delighted in watching his three children-Sondria Fisher Stallworth, Vinessia Fisher Hankins (Derrick), and Isreal Fisher IV-grow and flourish. His pride only grew as he welcomed five grandchildren: Devion Fisher, Will Buggs, Tierra Stallworth, Tamara Stallworth, and Derrick ("DJ") Hankins II, and four great-grandchildren: Ari Fisher, Angel Fisher, Draker Fisher, and Markayla Fisher. His six siblings-Tomena Grant (Phil), Lavaughn Sanderson, Cherrlynn Fisher Murray, Prentiss Sanderson, Bill Sanderson, and Sheila Ambrose (Loren) -remained close companions throughout his journey, including five godchildren, Daniel Church, Dillian Church, Dorian Church, Shanita Grandison and Shanience Grandison. Isreal was also a cherished uncle, cousin, and friend to a wide circle of loved ones whose lives he touched deeply.
Faith was the foundation of Isreal's life. Through "The Most Excellent Way" ministry and his presence at Pace Assembly of God Church, Olive Baptist Church, My Father's Vinyard, and Richard Memorial Church, he offered genuine encouragement, kindness, and a helping hand to anyone who needed it. His humility and devotion inspired those around him to love bigger and serve better.
Isreal was a dedicated worker, respected by colleagues at Champion International Paper Company, where he served as Maintenance Supervisor for over 25 years, and as a welder at Alabama Shipyard for more than 8 years. He brought the same steady hands and reliable spirit to his professional life as he did to his family and community.
Education was important to Isreal. He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1967, where he played trumpet and trombone in the band, contributed as a yearbook graphics artist, studied mechanical drawing and industrial arts, and played football. Later, he pursued an electronics certificate at Devry Institute of Technology, always eager to learn something new.
Isreal's love for life was evident in the way he tended his garden and grew flowers, fixed just about anything, and cheered for his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews at their school and sporting events. He was selfless, always putting others first, and he could strike up a conversation and make a friend anywhere he went. He was a provider, a helper, and a man whose faith shone through every action.
Isreal Fisher III leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and steadfast support. He will be remembered for his gentle humor, his unwavering encouragement, and the love he gave so freely to those around him. His memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.
