Hilton Head Island: A Fond Farewell to a Local Legend
HILTON HEAD ISLAND — On the sun-kissed shores of Hilton Head Island, where the soothing sound of waves meets the vibrant clinks of cocktail shakers, a local legend is moving on. If you’ve ever enjoyed a frozen concoction at the famed Pool Bar Jim’s, you might’ve met the man behind the bar, James Lisenby. For over 30 years, Lisenby served up tropical cocktails that brought smiles to countless vacationers.
Last August, however, the 76-year-old bartender took a step back from the hustle and bustle of bartending. After a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis, which affects his lungs, and Parkinson’s disease, which impacts his mobility, Lisenby made the difficult decision to hang up his cocktail shaker. While he enjoyed every moment behind the bar, health concerns made it clear that it was time for a change.
Born From a Dream
As we gathered at the bar—once a vibrant beachside hub—customers shared stories of their favorite drinks and memories with Lisenby. It all started back in 1993, when the idea of a poolside bar was nothing short of revolutionary. Lisenby pitched the idea to the general manager of the Marriott Grande Ocean Resort, and after some back and forth, they decided to give it a shot. Pool Bar Jim’s was born, and the rest is history!
Through the years, the bar became a staple for both locals and tourists, serving up tens of thousands of customers each summer. Lisenby crafted drinks made with fresh fruits, turning every visit into a colorful experience. With a menu that features everything from pina coladas to margaritas, there was always a new concoction waiting to be tasted. And if you were lucky, you might even get to try one of Pool Bar Jim’s original creations, many lovingly documented in a 300-page recipe book Lisenby published in 2005.
A Lasting Impact
On a recent August afternoon, just days before Labor Day weekend, the atmosphere shifted to bittersweet. Lisenby made a special appearance, greeting loyal customers and friends who gathered to celebrate him. “This is the best man I know!” one customer exclaimed as they approached Lisenby’s table, his portable oxygen tank discretely by his side. Though he may not be behind the bar anymore, his presence remains a beacon of joy for the community.
As Lisenby navigates his health challenges with care, he has a plan to make the most of his remaining time. He sees a cardiologist and is looking into therapies for Parkinson’s. Yet, he also dreams of traveling with his girlfriend, Sue. Topping his travel list is the Soggy Dollar Bar in the British Virgin Islands, famous for its delicious Painkiller cocktail—a perfect getaway for this beach-loving soul.
An Icon in Our Hearts
Lisenby’s story doesn’t just end at Pool Bar Jim’s; it lives on in each frozen drink served and in the smiles he created. “When I come here, I get to see all my friends,” he reflected, embodying the warmth that has made him a cherished figure in Hilton Head Island’s community.
As he takes a step back from an era filled with laughter, colorful drinks, and good vibes, James Lisenby will always be remembered. He is not just a bartender; he is a local icon who shaped countless beachside memories. While his cocktail-shaking days may be behind him, his spirit will forever linger under the sunny skies of Hilton Head Island.
