James Visbeck, of Cotuit, died at home on January 26, 2024 at 79. Jim is survived by his husband, Harold Holt, brother David Visbeck and his wife Fran, and cousins, Christine Davidson, Gail Mello and Betty Ruffino.
Jim was born in Uxbridge, MA on August 30,1944. He moved to Worcester at 20 to work in Ephraim's Bookstore, and then, with Rev. Blaine and Lois Taylor, founded Isaiah Thomas Books and Prints in 1969 at age 25. The bookstore was in Worcester until 1989, when it relocated to 4632 Falmouth Rd. in Cotuit on Cape Cod. For 55 years, Jim managed the store and served customers with care and support. With a love for books, expertise gained over the years, and a heart for his customers, Jim enabled Isaiah Thomas Books and Prints to thrive. Jim was well known in the national book community and memories have poured in from book dealers around the nation.
Jim was blessed to meet Hank Holt in 1980, and they shared life together ever since. Hank and Jim travelled extensively around the world, as well as being together at book fairs around the country. Hank shared: "over in the beautiful land to which my husband, Jim, has gone, we may not doubt he is free from the pains that he endured here, and as we gather at the riverside is it not sweet consolation to think that among the loved and lost, he may greet us on the other side."
A private gathering is being planned for the Spring at the bookstore to remember and celebrate Jim's life. To honor Jim, shop and support your local, independent used bookstore and if you like, make a donation to the Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America in his memory.
Jim was an early subscriber for our services. May he rest in peace.
