James Michael Marinelli

James M. Marinelli (57) passed away March 31 at his home in Boynton Beach. Born on September 20, 1959, in eastern Massachusetts to Peter and Ann Marinelli. He was raised in Belmont, MA and attended The New Preparatory School in Cambridge. He received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts and a Masters from Anna Maria College. He began his lifelong career in law enforcement in Chatham, MA, and later with other South Florida law enforcement agencies: Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, the Palm Beach State College Police Academy and was currently employed with the Palm Beach County School District Police Department. Jim was also the Assistant Director of the Indian River Community College Police Academy and later the Director of the Palm Beach County Police Academy. In addition to his law enforcement experience, Jim was an experienced educator. He taught at a number of South Florida universities, most recently Keiser University.

Jim is survived by his two sons, Scott and Matthew Marinelli of Boynton Beach and their mother, Lisa; his two brothers, Mark and Paul Marinelli of Belmont, MA; his father, Peter Marinelli, and his mother Ann (Magliulo) Marinelli, both from Belmont, MA.

Through Jim’s career in law enforcement and education, he has made a positive difference in the lives of many. He was a loving father, a great teacher, and a good friend. He will be missed by all.

The family invites all members of the law enforcement community, friends, and students to a memorial service that will be held on Friday, April 7th at Park Vista Community High School in Boynton Beach, FL, at 6pm.