James T. Heisler, Sr.

James T. Heisler Sr., known affectionately as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on January 9, 1936, in Philadelphia, Jim was a Maple Shade resident since 1990.

Jim proudly served his nation as a member of the US Army, a period of his life that instilled in him a sense of discipline and community that he carried throughout his years. After his military service, he worked at Sam Bless & Co. bindery for nearly 40 years.  In 1995, he channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into founding Poplar Bindery Inc., where he demonstrated his leadership and business acumen. 

Jim's interests were as fun and engaging as his personality. He was known for his love of playing cards, a pastime that brought him joy and companionship. He also loved betting on the ponies and cheering them on at the Garden State Racetrack.  His frequent casino trips were not just about the thrill of the game but also about the pleasure of being in the company of friends and loved ones.

Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife of 50 years, Ellen Maley Heisler, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and memories. He leaves behind a legacy through his children: Jim Heisler, Jr. and his wife Josephine, Steven Heisler and his wife Lisa, John Heisler and his wife Andrea, Maryellen DeMille and her husband Paul, Cathleen Laing and her husband Brian, and Carolyn Linden and her husband Bob. His grandchildren, Jim III and his wife Annmarie, Lorraine LaMontagne and her husband DJ, Vincent, Steven Joshua and his wife Lisa, Michael and his wife Danielle, Dylan and his wife Bethany, Chelsea Bauscher and her husband Sam, John J., Elizabeth, Nikolaus Laing, Casey Laing, Jeremy Linden, and Nathan Linden, will carry forward his spirit of kindness and generosity. Jim was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Onicca, Dominic, Joseph, TaeLynn, Skylar, Jimmy IV, and Zackery, who brought him immense joy in his later years. Jim is loved by his family without exception, and he loved them unconditionally. 

Jim is survived by his brother, George Heisler and his wife Revetta, and sister-in-law, Catherine Heisler. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Frederick and Stella Heisler, Rita and Ray Weikel, Joseph Heisler, Catherine "Cass" and Sam Mercanti, Susan and Nick Smargiassi, John and Betty Heisler, and Lillian and Larry Pape. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and he cherished the memories they made together.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Wednesday, March 6th from 7 to 9 pm at the MARK C.TILGHMAN FUNERAL HOME, 38 North Forklanding Road, Maple Shade. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 am, Thursday, March 7th at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 236 East Main Street, Maple Shade. Interment will follow in Colestown Cemetery, Cherry Hill.