James S. Marshall, 73 passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday Sept. 26, at his home in Belfast, Maine. Born November 28, 1943 to George Marshall Sr. and Rose May (Ferriera) Marshall in Tisbury, Massachusetts, Jimmy was a lifelong resident of Martha’s Vineyard until he relocated to Belfast in 2004.
He was a graduate of Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, a decorated Marine and Vietnam veteran, as well as a reserve member of the Army National Guard. In 1998 he retired from the Oak Bluffs Police Department as a Detective Sergeant after 31 years of faithful service. He was also a Deputy Sheriff and Trial Court Officer. After retirement he opened Marshall Investigative Services and spent several years as a private investigator.
He was a pilot, an artist, a skilled baker, a wonderful chef. He enjoyed golfing, spending time with friends, doting on his granddaughter, tending to his yard and helping others.
He was predeceased by his father George Marshall Sr., his mother Rose (Marshall) Leite, step-father John Leite Sr., and his brothers George and Arthur. He is survived by and was the proud father of Stephanie Marshall of Pierre, SD, the adoring grandfather (Papa) of Arrianna Marshall-Burns of North Attleboro, MA. He is also survived by his sister Delores Bernard, brothers; Walter, Steve and Dennis, half-brothers; John Leite III and Chris Marshall and multiple cousins, nieces and nephews as well as very close friend Helen Chelf of Philadelphia, PA. and ex-wife and close friend Betsy Marshall of Oak Bluffs, MA.
Services will be held Saturday Oct. 7, at 1 pm at Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast, ME. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to a veteran’s charity of your choice in Jimmy’s name.
A celebration of life will be held on Martha’s Vineyard in 2018, the date is yet to be determined. Memories and condolences may be shared at ripostafh.com.
