James Martinelli, 02/26/1951 – 03/02/2025

James Anthony Martinelli passed away March 2, 2025.

Though he was born in Virginia, James spent his formative years in Salem, OH. A life-long Catholic, James felt a call to service early in life. He attended St. Mary’s Seminary of the West and Divine Word College. In addition to his seminary studies, James became fluent in Latin and German. After graduation, James served as a missionary in Japan for several years, continuing his clergy studies and becoming fluent in Japanese. When he returned to the United States, he spent several years in California and Kansas, serving the community as a mental health case manager. He returned home to Salem in 1998, where he spent the remainder of his life sharing laughter and joy with his family and friends.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Frances Martinelli. He is survived by his siblings, Peter, Mary Beth, Susan, Tony, and Gayle, and their spouses; and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m., Monday, March 10, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church with a Memorial Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Grandview Cemetery.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view James's obituary or send condolences, please visit www.starkmemorial.com.