Born in Embry, South Carolina on the Edisto River, Edward B. Kissam was part of the “Greatest Generation.” He served his country in both the European and Pacific theatres during World War II, first as a Merchant Marine, and later as a United States Marine.
He was graduated from the University of Florida and received his medical degree from the Bowman Gray School of Medicine of Wake Forest University. When he opened his practice in orthopaedic surgery in 1960 it was the first integrated office in Gainesville, FL. A technically brilliant surgeon, and innovator in his field, he was one of the first in the country to successfully adopt the microscope for reconstructive surgery.
Coach Ray Graves selected him as the team physician for the University of Florida’s sports teams from 1960 to 1969. Doc, as he was known to many, especially enjoyed working and traveling with the University of Florida Gators football team.
In retirement, he was a Guardian Ad Litem and a mentor for the Gainesville Police Department’s Juvenile Justice program. He was also a longtime docent for the University of Florida’s Whitney Laboratory in St. Augustine. He was an accomplished sailor, and after obtaining his captain’s license he sailed extensively throughout the Caribbean and Bermuda.
Most of all, our Pop saw the world with a poet’s eye, and with an open heart. He truly wished everyone well, and his love of life was infectious. His greatest joy was his family and he was our rock. His legacy stems from his kind, selfless, exuberant spirit that inspired all who knew him. As he was fond of saying, “Love is the bond that holds us together.”
He is survived by his five children, Babette Kissam (Steve Cuffe) of Jacksonville Beach, Edward B. “Bart” Kissam Jr. of Port St. Lucie, Katherine “Trina” Griffiths (Tim) of Marietta, GA, Benjamin “Tread” Kissam (Carroll) of St. Augustine, and Christopher “Topher” Kissam (Kimberly) of Altamonte Springs; brother, John B. Kissam (Pat) of Clemson; ten grandchildren; one great grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Barbara Ivey (Metze), and four of his siblings.
The family is holding a private service. All wishing to pay respects may leave a personal message under "Memories & Condolences" above. Donations can be made in his name to Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, K-12 Education Program, by check or online.
To donate online, here is a direct link, please note “Memorial for Edward Kissam” in the section for memorial/honorary information.
https://www.uff.ufl.edu/giving-opportunities/005161-whitney-labs-educational-programs/
Check: Please make out to UF Foundation
Memo line: Kissam Memorial Whitney Lab
Mail To:
Attn: Emily Gordon
UF Whitney Laboratory
9505 Oceanshore Blvd
St. Augustine, FL 32080
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