James Francis Simonelli

Sim was a very special man, mentor and coach. He was the Clasd of 86 principal. He was cool, kind, and compassionate. He was hard when he needed to be but support mostly. He assisted my through my four years at LBHS. He advised and counseled; encouraging and ensure I reached my full potential. He will be greatly missed. Sim is the GOAT! Forever in my . Condolences to the family.

Coach Sim I know you are in eternal glory with Jesus! Gone but never forgotten! thank you for all you did in our lives especially your encouragement and leadership to help mold us into responsible adults. Thank you for teaching us how to compete & play football #51...Eternally grateful Bill "Guido" Guidetti

I am very sorry to hear this news. I knew Jim since 1973. We were good friends. We worked closely together when I became a Guidance Counselor at the high school. We had a few downs, but mostly ups. I enjoyed singing oldies to Jim, to see if he knew them. I remember so well Jim handing me my last paycheck, and wishing me well in my retirement. I send my condolences to his entire family, especially Jenna, who was one of my favorite students. May he rest in peace. Bill Langan

Jim I´ll never forget growing up as friends in Long Branch. Sand lot baseball was the best. Playing football in Dick Lawn´s backyard and Wiffle ball in your driveway on Pavillon Ave. Rest in Peace my Friend. You will be missed.

Our deepest Condolences to Roseann and all the family. We became best of friends from the moment we met in Monmouth Medical Center having our first born child over 50 years ago. Since then we watched our families grow and he became more like family. So many fond memories. It's sad to say but it does seem true that "Only The Good Die Young". RIP our dearest friend Jim. We will truly miss you. Jim & Sandy Cattelona

Mr Simonelli was the brightest part of my son Rick Wetzel experience at LBHS. Rick played football for LB, he had so much respect for Mr Simonelli. When Rick died suddenly of a heart attack even during Covid restrictions Mr Simonelli appeared at Rick´s wake, some 30+ years after Rick graduated. Every student respected, liked & appreciated Mr. Simonelli he was a genuine fair & kind man. Rest in Peace.

I first knew from when I was in high school. He was in Long Branch and I at Shore Regional though we had many the same people we knew. Then he came first to Shore to teach for a bit before going back to Long Branch then back to Shore briefly as a vice principal and football coach then back to Long Branch. A great guy, fun good to work with . He will be missed.
Condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.

Jimmie was one of many guys I loved playing sports with as we grew up. Always earnest, tough and fun and kind. We grew up to be better people by competing and supporting each other. I loved them all and have a special place in my heart for him. I'm so glad to have known him as a classmate, team mate, worthy opponent and friend. Love you, man!