

Born on October 5, 1950, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Elmer Jefferson Bissell and Virginia Beeland Bissell, Harold was the second of four children. He cherished 37 years of marriage with Jane Pearson Bissell, together building a full and joyful life rooted in love, devotion, companionship, and treasured memories.
Harold loved the Lord, and his life reflected the love, grace, and joy of Jesus Christ. A loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, his generous servant heart touched countless lives, and his joyful spirit brought comfort and encouragement wherever he went. He believed that to whom much is given, much is expected, and he lived his life accordingly. Harold devoted his boundless energy to serving others being fully present with people, making each person feel like the most important individual in the room. His generosity knew no boundaries and required no recognition. His smile was infectious, and his laughter made everyone around him feel loved. Those who knew Harold will remember his warm eyes, charming smile, and clever sense of humor.
Family was the greatest blessing of Harold’s life. He loved his family deeply and faithfully, teaching by example, demonstrating integrity, compassion, generosity, selflessness, and hard work. His children, grandchildren, and extended family will forever cherish the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the unconditional love he shared.
A graduate of the University of Georgia, Harold aka “Bissell the Missile” played football under the legendary Coach Vince Dooley.
Professionally, Harold was an industry leader as President of Air Engineers, the oldest Trane HVAC wholesale distributor in the country. He led with excellence, compassion, and integrity. Through his vision and leadership, he grew the company into one of the premier distributors in the nation. He loved his Air Engineers family and all the people they serve.
He was an active member of the Beaux Arts Krewe, the Monday Morning Quarterback Club, The Club, the Country Club of Birmingham, and Mountain Brook Club and held a special love for The Exceptional Foundation, The Rise Foundation, and Daniel Cason Ministries.
He especially loved spending time at his farm, Longleaf, in Boligee. There he found peace and great joy in sharing his land with others. He cared more about family and friends creating lasting memories than creating them for himself. On the back porch at Longleaf, he taught life lessons, shared wisdom, offered guidance, and created countless moments of laughter and fellowship.
Harold is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Jane; his sister, Jean Sherling Bissell; his sons, Jefferson Bolling Bissell (Jessica), John Owens Bissell (Ann Lindsey), and Elmer Jefferson Bissell (Jenna); his daughters, Katherine Bissell Littrell (Richard), Mary Catherine Pritchett (Travis), and Caroline Coats Woods (Byron); his grandchildren, Madeline Woods, Virginia Littrell, Grey Pritchett, Cate Woods, Sam Pritchett, Rich Littrell, Ryder Pritchett, Harry Bissell, Beeland Bissell, Webster Bissell, and Parks Bissell; and Max, his loyal white Labrador. He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Jefferson Bolling Bissell and James Beeland Bissell. Harold’s family would like to extend grateful appreciation to Greg Smith, Lisa Hallman, Roderick Gardner, Darryl Debose, and his guardian angel Cynthia Goodman, the angels at ACG Hospice, and particular appreciation to Dr Jay Whatley and Camellia Medical Group. The family also would like to thank Reverend Rich Webster for his love and support.
A memorial and celebration service will be held at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church at 11:00am on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, with a celebration following at Mountain Brook Club. In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to The Rise Foundation, The Exceptional Foundation, Monday Morning Quarterback Club, Daniel Cason Ministries and the Saint Luke’s Foundation for memorials.
While his absence leaves an immeasurable void in our hearts, we rejoice in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of our Heavenly Father. His life was a testament to faith, love, humility, and selfless service, and his memory will forever be a blessing to all who knew him.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23
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