James G. Giannell of Red Bank passed away Sept. 27, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born Demitrios George Giannell on Nov. 15, 1951, in Long Branch, Jim was a lifelong Monmouth County resident.
Jim was a proud Red Banker who graduated from Red Bank High School, Class of 1969, and spent the majority of his life in the borough. A 1973 graduate of Trenton State College, Jim originally planned a career in education before committing to his career in real estate which he excelled in for 50 years. As president of New Markets Realty LLC, Jim was extremely knowledgeable and helpful to many, especially in the area of commercial and residential real estate.
His greatest passions included Greek, Roman and Byzantine history, politics, all eras and genres of music, international travel, cooking, movies, the San Francisco 49ers and San Francisco Giants, and gardening (especially roses). The son of the Caramel Sweet Shop owner, Jim was a chocolate and fudge connoisseur.
Jim was active in local and county Republican politics with a commitment to community service and served as Red Bank Municipal Chair for several years. He also served an unexpired term on the Red Bank Borough Council, was an active county committeeman and was instrumental in fundraising and electing many to public office in New Jersey. Jim was both dedicated to and very proud of his many years serving as a member and chairman of the Monmouth County Planning Board.
There was nothing Jim enjoyed more than entertaining and going out to dinner with family and friends. He was known for his sharp wit and incredible sense of humor. Everyone who knew him understood that the more he teased you, the more he loved you. Jim will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Christos and Kalliopi Giannell, and is survived by his loving son Christopher (Melanie) and cherished granddaughter Fiona, his daughter Alexandra, sister Tasha Adams, his fiancée of 29 years, Gerri C. Popkin, and a host of treasured and devoted friends and colleagues.
Visitation and a service were held Oct. 2 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. Cremation was private.
The article originally appeared in the October 10 – 16, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
