GLOUCESTER – Chief Edward Conley and the Gloucester Police Department are saddened to share news of the passing of former Police Chief James Marr Sr.
Chief Marr, a lifelong Gloucester resident, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Beverly Hospital, surrounded by his loving family, after a brief illness. He was 83 years old.
Chief Marr dedicated decades of his life to serving and protecting the Gloucester community. He first joined the Gloucester Police Department in 1964, first as a Park Constable, becoming a Reserve Police Officer and then a full-time Officer for the department during that same year.
Chief Marr rose through the ranks until he was appointed Chief of Police in July 1989. He served as Chief for nearly 14 years until his retirement in March 2003.
Throughout his tenure, Chief Marr was known for his commitment to public safety, his leadership within the department, and his deep ties to the Gloucester community. His legacy continues through the officers he mentored and the positive impact he made on the city he called home.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of retired Gloucester Police Chief James Marr Sr.,” said Chief Conley. “Chief Marr was a dedicated public servant who devoted his career to keeping Gloucester safe. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
Chief Marr was deeply involved in the Gloucester community beyond his work in law enforcement. He was a proud member of the Gloucester Rotary Club for 39 years and was especially passionate about giving back through fundraising efforts. One of his proudest accomplishments was his longstanding participation in the Jimmy Fund Walk, supporting cancer treatment and research. Chief Marr joined fellow members of the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association in raising awareness and funds for this important cause through his participation in a relay run from the New York state border to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.
Outside of his professional and philanthropic efforts, Chief Marr enjoyed traveling the world with his wife and family, embracing new experiences and cultures. He also appreciated the simple pleasures of life, relishing a good ribeye steak and a glass of wine. A proud American and a devoted family man, he lived by the principle of putting service above self.
Chief Marr is survived by his beloved wife, Pamela Marr; his son James Marr Jr., together with longtime companion Sarah Harwood; and his daughter Kimberly Marr-Foster and her husband Colin Foster.
Chief Marr’s son, James Marr Jr., followed in his father’s footsteps as a Gloucester Police officer and he now serves as an agent with the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Gloucester Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the Marr family, friends, and all who knew and respected Chief Marr. ♦
