Obituary of Mary Alice Bissell

Mary Alice Bissell, 91, of Maplewood, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Winchester Gardens in Maplewood.

Born in New York, New York, Mary Alice spent many years in Jupiter, Florida, before relocating to Maplewood seven years ago.  She graduated summa cum laude from the University of New Haven, earning her Bachelor of Arts degree, and went on to receive her Master of Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

Mary Alice built a creative and fulfilling career as a graphic designer with her business On The Line Graphics in Darien, Connecticut.

She lived in Darien for many years with her second husband Jim Bissell who was a loving and wonderful stepdad to her children.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Betsy Klein Palumbo and her husband Don; her son, John Klein; her brother, Bishop Gallagher; and her two cherished grandchildren, Lydia Palumbo and Emmett Palumbo. She was predeceased by her parents Peter and Helen (Horan) Gallagher.

Family and friends will remember Mary Alice for her warmth, her creative spirit, and the deep love she shared with those closest to her. She was truly unforgettable and left a lasting impression wherever she went.

Funeral arrangements are private.