James J. Bissett Jr.

James Joseph Bissett, Jr., 89, of Holtsville, New York, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2026, surrounded by family and loved ones. He was a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Jim was the oldest of 6 children born to James and Marguriete Bissett on June 6, 1937. He graduated from Garden City High School in 1955 and honorably served in the U.S. Navy from 1955-1957. Jim married Joan, his beloved wife of 35 years in 1962. In 1964, they co-founded Bissett Nursery Corp. out of their backyard in Holtsville, New York. Jim quickly became highly regarded as a pioneer in the wholesale nursery industry. Through their tireless hard work and dedication, Jim and Joan grew Bissett Nursery into one of the largest wholesale nursery distributors on the east coast which operated as a family-owned business for over fifty years. Jim had a remarkable passion and zest for life, and enjoyed many hobbies such as horse racing, boating, fishing, hunting and travel. Jim was particularly known and loved by so many for his inspiring work ethic, his endearing warmth and charisma, and his kind and generous spirit. Jim deeply touched the lives of many people and will be terribly missed by all that knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donations to Jim's favorite charity, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation , in Jim’s memory.