Kenneth Sherman Bissell

Kenneth Sherman Bissell passed away on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Fairfax Cardiac Hospital in Falls Church, Virginia.

Ken is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 41 years, Beverly A. Brockmann Bissell; his son, Cory Edmund Bissell of Denver, Colorado; his daughter, Dena Bissell Vandagriff; two beloved granddaughters, McKenna and Lyla; and his son-in-law, Eric Vandagriff, all of Richmond, Virginia. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews throughout New England.

Born and raised in Exeter, New Hampshire, Ken was an accomplished percussionist who played in his high school marching band. He pursued higher education at Boston College before transferring to the University of New Hampshire in Durham, where he earned a Bachelor of Music Education and continued to perform as a percussionist in the university band.

Ken proudly served his country as a tympanist with a U.S. Army unit band stationed at Fort Belvoir. Following his service, he dedicated his career to music education, teaching band and chorus in public schools across New England, Maryland, and Virginia. His passion for music extended to community theatre, where he was honored with the Ruby Griffith Award for his work on Rockville Musical Theatre’s production of *Man of La Mancha*.

A leader in the handbell community since 1976, Ken conducted workshops and festivals throughout the United States and Canada. He earned a Master’s degree in Choral Conducting from George Mason University and studied composing and arranging for handbells at Westminster Choir College. Ken served from 1978-1981 as Area Chair for Area III of the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers (now Handbell Musicians of America). Ken held numerous other positions within Area III over the years, including Virginia State Chair. Ken is well known for his skill in starting and maintaining handbell programs, as well as teaching upcoming conductors. This passion led Ken to found the Director Mentor program through HMA. Most recently, he directed the handbell program at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington (UUCAVA) beginning in December 2010.

In addition to his musical accomplishments, Ken worked as a Regional Vice President with Primerica Financial Services, helping families achieve financial security. Above all else, he cherished his roles as a loving husband to Bev, a proud father to Dena and Cory, and an adoring PopPop to McKenna and Lyla—his greatest joys in life.

Ken’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his music, mentorship, and unwavering love for his family.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at 2 pm at Centreville United Methodist Church, 6400 Old Centreville Rd, Centreville, VA 20121. The family requests that attendees wear colorful clothing instead of all black or all white.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to: Handbell Musicians of America Area 3 - see the link below or checks can be made to HMA Area 3 Treasurer and mailed to 1104 Warren Ave Cary, NC 27511, please include the words "Mentor Program Ken Bissell" on the memo line; or make a donation of blood or platelets to your local blood bank.