James J. Bivens

James J. Bivens, known to most as Jim or Pop age 77, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Son of the late Erven and Mary Bivens, he grew up in Westbrook Park and had many friends there.

Jim was a proud graduate of Upper Darby High School. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country and joined the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, where he was stationed in the Holy Loch, Scotland, where he met his beloved wife Mary.

Jim was a hardworking man throughout his life. He worked for the Carpenters Union for many years helping build Liberty Place in Philadelphia, before becoming self-employed. For the last 40 years, he owned and operated his own oil tank and boiler removal company, James J. Bivens and Sons. Alongside his beloved wife, Mary, they owned Rookies Hilltop Inn Bar and Restaurant, a place that held many memories for their family and community. Although the bar tragically burned down a year ago, the memories and legacy built there will never be forgotten. Jim always said we would rebuild.

Jim was also a proud member of the ABATE Motorcycle Club. For several years, he became Santa Claus during the Toys for Tots runs. He always said that seeing the look in the children’s eyes made it all worthwhile. That was Jim—someone who found joy in making others happy.

Jim was an avid hunter, hunting everything from bear to birds to deer. He also enjoyed spending a majority of his time in the Poconos, where he and his wife have owned a home for the last 40 years. Jim built the Pocono house after a fire in the old house which destroyed it.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Erven and Mary Bivens, and his brother, Gary Bivens.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 57 years, Mary Bivens; his daughter, Donna (Jason) Chism; his son, Jamie Bivens; his brother, Richard (Kathy) Bivens; sister-in-law Vicki Bivens; and Anne (William) Elliott. He was a very proud godfather to Megan Rufo and Ian Elliott. He was a proud grandfather to his four granddaughters, Makenzie, Devyn, Olivia, and Blakely, and a loving great-grandfather to Lucas. He was also a loving uncle to Ian, Dean, Susan, Megan, Ricky and Rebecca.

Jim was a husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, veteran, and friend. He was hardworking, strong, and deeply loved by those who knew him. His family will forever cherish the memories they shared with him and carry his love with them always.

Jim will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten by so many family and friends.

A celebration of life will be planned in the next few months in his honor.