News Summary

Hundreds gathered at Lowcountry Celebration Park on Hilton Head Island to honor the life of Jim Lisenby, known as ‘Pool Bar Jim,’ who passed away last month. Attendees shared fond memories and enjoyed live music, free food, and Jim’s favorite drinks. Local restaurants provided meals, while guests wore Hawaiian shirts in tribute to the beloved bartender who had a significant impact on the community.

Hilton Head Island Memorial Event Honors ‘Pool Bar Jim’

Hundreds gathered Saturday at Lowcountry Celebration Park on Hilton Head Island to celebrate the life of Jim Lisenby, affectionately known as “Pool Bar Jim,” following his passing last month.

About Jim Lisenby:
– Owner of the iconic “Pool Bar Jim’s”
– Known for signature fresh fruit cocktails and colorful Hawaiian shirts
– Served drinks to patrons since before the incorporation of Hilton Head Island

Attendees included both local islanders and visitors, some traveling from as far as Pittsburgh to pay tribute. Many guests wore Hawaiian shirts or Pool Bar Jim T-shirts in his honor.

Memorial Highlights:
– The event featured live music, free food, and complimentary drinks, including Jim’s favorites, Fireball and Painkillers.
– Local restaurants such as Sunrise Cafe and Mellow Mushroom provided meals like grits, pulled pork, and BBQ ribs.

Several longtime patrons shared fond memories of Jim. Bonnie Hartnell, 81, recalled her first drink from Jim in 1981, emphasizing that he always remembered her favorite order. Lynne Hummell reminisced about visiting Jim’s club, Jim’s Paradise, when it opened in 1984.

Personal Reflections:
– Steve Kreuter and his wife traveled from Aiken, recalling Jim’s warm interactions.
– Jim’s nephew, Mark Vanden Heuvel, who has worked at Pool Bar Jim’s since 2019, reflected on Jim’s friendship with staff.
– Former bartender Brendan Horlbeck spoke about Jim’s lasting influence on his work philosophy.

Attendees had the opportunity to leave handwritten messages in two notebooks, which quickly filled with notes of appreciation. One heartfelt message described Jim as “a light in the darkness” of Hilton Head Island.

Jim’s Legacy:
– Known as a “legend” in Hilton Head’s hospitality and bartending community.
– Praised by friends in the food and beverage industry for his commitment to quality.
– Stepped away from bartending in August 2023 due to health issues, including pulmonary fibrosis and Parkinson’s disease.

Jim Lisenby was well-regarded for building a loyal customer base, with many returning to enjoy his cocktails over the years. His memorable impact continues to resonate with those who attended the memorial.

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Additional Resources

• Island Packet: Memorial Event for Pool Bar Jim
• Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
• MSN: Thousands Gather to Remember Pool Bar Jim
• Google Search: Pool Bar Jim
• Eat It and Like It: Pool Bar Jim
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Pool Bar Jim
• Legacy: James Lisenby Obituary
• Google News: James Lisenby
• Post and Courier: Pool Bar Jim’s Hilton Head
• Google Scholar: Pool Bar Jim
• Island Packet: Local News on Pool Bar Jim