Obituary of Barbara Joyce Bissig

Barbara Joyce Bissig (Nee: Kellerman) went into eternity on Wednesday October 4th, 2023 at the age of 91 with her family beside her.  She enjoyed her final days at Terra Bella Assisted Living facility in Southport, NC, close to her daughter Judy Holovach and her husband John.  

Barbara is survived by her daughter Judy Holovach and her husband John of Southport, NC and her son Tom, and his wife Barbara of Denville, NJ 

Prior to moving to NC, Barbara remained in Denville, with her son Tom and his wife Barbara.  

Barbara always had a smile on her face; she could often be found cooking delicious food in her kitchen, which she enjoyed sharing with others. Barb specialized in soups and Italian food.  

“Barb” was also affectionately known as “Mrs. B” by her 5 great-grandchildren; Eli, Sam and Molly Scofield of Binghamton, NY and Jazmine and Nadra Borders of Alcoa, TN 

An only child, Barbara was born on April 15, 1932 in Rutherford, NJ to William and Gussie Kellerman. She attended Rutherford public schools.  In addition to being named Best Dressed by her peers, she was involved in cheerleading, the school newspaper and color guard in the marching band. 

Right after high school, Barbara started her first job at Motor Vehicle.  She then worked for American Alclad before becoming a buyer for Packers Clothing Store in Denville. She then went to the Township of Denville where she became Deputy Registrar prior to her retirement in 1995. After retirement, Barbara was the office manager and heart of Seneca Tree Service, a business she and her husband Tom started in the mid 1960’s.  It was later taken over by her son Tom.  

She married Thomas W. Bissig, Sr. on September 22, 1951.  They were married in Rutherford, NJ and lived in Clifton, before moving to Denville. Some of Barbara’s favorite memories were of her time in Aruba with her daughter Judy and her husband John, as well as her “Pride and Joy” her grandson Michael of Raleigh, NC.   

Besides her family, Barbara is survived by and leaves behind fond memories to her “extended family” of Mike and Mary Ellen Di Biasse and their three children Kaitlin, Patrick and Erin who affectionately called Barb “Aunt B”.

Other close friends include Maryann Cuneo and Billy O’Keefe, of Denville. Their friendship dates back to 1978 and includes many memories of church, baking, and shopping.  

Barbara attended Grace Church on the Mount in Netcong, NJ.  She was a greeter and will always be remembered for her welcoming smile.  

Three words that sum up Barbara’s life are FAITHFUL, LOVING and GENEROUS.

All service for Barbara will be private. Donations are being welcomed in her memory to Gentiva Hospice 497 Olde Waterford Way, Suite 208 Belville, N.C. 28451.