In Memory of John Thomas “Tom” Bisset
November 27, 1938 – October 30, 2025
It is with deep gratitude for his life and ministry that we share the passing of John Thomas (Tom) Bisset, who went home to be with the Lord on October 30, 2025, at the age of 86. Tom was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, mentor, friend to many, and a visionary leader whose steady influence shaped the direction of Christian radio for generations.
Born in Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania, on November 27, 1938, to John Osborne and Barbara (Orange) Bisset, Tom was just ten years old when his father and his father’s brother Peter, both Baltimore City pastors, launched a gospel radio program. Four years later, Tom’s family moved to a dairy farm in Carroll County, Maryland, which would become River Valley Ranch (RVR), a Western-themed Christian youth camp that continues to impact thousands of lives each year.
Tom graduated from Moody Bible Institute and Greenville College, spending his summers working at RVR. In 1963, he met Mary Ruth Kennedy, a piano-playing California counselor from BIOLA (Bible Institute of Los Angeles, now Biola University), and quickly knew she was the one. After a long-distance courtship filled with heartfelt letters, they married in 1964, the same year 95.1 WRBS was purchased, and where Tom would begin a lifelong career in Christian broadcasting.
Tom’s leadership and insight left a lasting mark on the national Christian media landscape. Among a handful of early pioneers who helped define the direction of Christian radio, he stood out for his integrity, intellect, and quiet strength. He led with vision, helping establish standards of clarity, excellence, and ministry focus in religious broadcasting that endure today.
He played a pivotal role in the early days of what would become the radio ministry of Dr. John MacArthur (Grace To You), airing recordings of his sermons. Tom also encouraged Dr. Tony Evans, a fellow Baltimore native, to expand his ministry, The Alternative, nationally. He also partnered with Dr. James Dobson, Dr. David Jeremiah, Joni Eareckson Tada, and other notable leaders, offering counsel and friendship that helped guide their ministries through seasons of growth.
As General Manager of WRBS, Tom led the station to receive the National Religious Broadcasters Station of the Year Award in 1983. Later, as President of Peter & John Ministries, he guided the organization, strengthening its outreach through BRIGHT-FM, RVR, and other ministry initiatives.
Beyond the studio, Tom was a gifted writer and communicator. He authored four books: Why Christian Kids Leave the Faith (1992), Every Day With Jesus (1995), Good News for Prodigals (1998), and A Risky Obedience (2017). Additionally, he contributed regularly to Power for Living magazine and The Baltimore Sun. He held two master’s degrees from Johns Hopkins University, was an ordained minister, and remained a lifelong learner who valued both intellect and humility.
Tom was also known for his love of sports and competition: coaching his son’s undefeated “Green Machine” youth soccer team or claiming the Maryland State Doubles Handball Championship. Yet those who knew him best will remember his gentleness, wit, and deep care for people. He was as faithful in friendship as he was in leadership, often penning thoughtful letters of encouragement and insight to program producers, pastors, employees, and friends across the country.
He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Mary Ruth; his daughter Christina Blackman (Alan); his son Jon Bisset (Courtney); his grandchildren Evelyn and Amelia Blackman, and Anna and Aidan Bisset; his siblings Sharon, Chuck (Audrey), and Steve (Joan); and a large extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who cherished him dearly.
A memorial service will be held at Roland Run Presbyterian Church (formerly Valley Presbyterian Church) in Lutherville, Maryland, on Saturday, November 22, at 11:00 AM, followed by a light lunch in the fellowship hall.
For those wishing to honor Tom’s legacy, memorial gifts may be directed to Peter & John Ministries, where he devoted his life to sharing the hope of Jesus. Gifts to either BRIGHT-FM or River Valley Ranch would honor his decades of leadership and impact.
Tom’s influence was lasting and large, not because he sought prominence, but because he faithfully used his gifts to serve others. Above all, his deepest love was for his Savior, Jesus Christ, to whom he dedicated his life, his work, and his every effort. His faith was not only his message but his motivation, shaping every decision and interaction with grace and conviction. His legacy of faith, integrity, and encouragement continues to echo across the airwaves, through the ministries he shaped, and in the countless lives touched by his words and example.