James Veltri

Mr. James Emil "Jim" Veltri, age 70, passed away on March 4, 2025, in W. Melbourne, Florida. Born on September 20, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, Jim lived a life defined by dedication, perseverance, and the meaningful connections he cultivated along the way.

In 1977, Jim made a pivotal move from Brooklyn, New York, to Florida with his closest friend and lifelong brother-in-arms, John Coppola. United by a shared dream of entering law enforcement, the two worked tirelessly-laboring on Port Canaveral scallop boats by day while attending the Brevard Police Academy. Their grit and determination laid the foundation for long and impactful careers serving their community.

Jim furthered his education at Eastern Florida State and steadily rose through the ranks of law enforcement to become a respected Police Lieutenant. Known for his fairness, strong leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice, Jim earned the admiration of both colleagues and community members alike. He was regarded as an exceptional police supervisor who led with integrity and compassion. After decades of honorable service, he retired from law enforcement in December 2010.

Retirement marked the beginning of another adventure for Jim-one that reflected his deep love for the sea. He fulfilled a longtime dream by purchasing a 42-foot liveaboard sailboat. This vessel became not only his home but also a symbol of his adventurous spirit and enduring connection to nature. An avid boating enthusiast and fly fisherman, Jim found immense joy in casting lines across open waters and sharing his passion with others. He generously volunteered his time and expertise within the community, always eager to help fellow anglers refine their skills.

In January 2000, while still active in law enforcement, Jim met NancyJane Lawson. Though life took them in different directions for a time, they reunited in 2013 and built a loving partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared experiences. Their bond culminated in marriage and flourished until Jim's passing. He also embraced his role as stepfather with heartfelt devotion.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, NancyJane Lawson of W. Melbourne; stepchildren Jacqueline Hughes (Jason Daniels) and their children Jackson and Charlie Rose of W. Melbourne; Julia Rose Palmeri (Dillon) of Asheville, North Carolina; and Carter Palmeri of W. Melbourne. He is also survived by son Joseph Veltri D'Alessandro (Alyssa) of Orlando; sister Janice Jacome of Bronx, New York; mother-in-law Jane Mandeville of Satellite Beach; sisters-in-law Karen Dibbern (Andreas) and their children Bianca and Eric; Susan March (Steve) and their children Alexia Mandeville, Marisa, and Corrine; Michelle Mandeville (Nikia Crawford); as well as his cherished brother through life, John Coppola (Judi) of Melbourne.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Latella Veltri and Emilio Veltri.

Jim's legacy lives on through those whose lives he touched-as a devoted public servant who led with honor, a generous mentor who gave freely from experience, an adventurer who followed his passions fearlessly, and a kind-hearted man whose warmth left lasting impressions wherever he went.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and peace to those who loved him dearly.