Paul Rocco Trimboli

Paul Rocco Trimboli, 86, of Kinston passed away on Monday, May 9, 2022 at his home. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nunciato Trimboli and Benedicta J. Pierzchala.
Paul R. Trimboli was dedicated to his family, friends, and fellow workers; but beyond them he was dedicated to children. When he met and married a Kinston native and opted for southern living, little did he know the impact his life would have on this community, in general, and the young people, in particular. After he fulfilled his obligation to his country and was discharged from military service in March 1962, Trimboli accepted a job as a policeman with the Kinston Police Department, where he worked as a rookie policeman, radio dispatcher, and traffic officer. Three years later, in April 1965, the governing body of the city announced the addition of a juvenile division within the police department, and Paul was named to organize and head this division. In 1971, Trimboli left the Kinston Police Department to work as a court counselor with the Eighth Judicial District, a job he retired from in 1990.
Trimboli was involved in the community as well. He served the local post of Traveler’s Protective Association, beginning in 1963, in the capacities of Community Services Chairman, Vice-President, President, and a member of the Board of Directors. On the state level he served for four years as state Chairman of Community Services and also as State President. He was a member of Queen Street United Methodist Church, where he served as a Sunday School teacher and a member of the Board of Directors.
His interests were ongoing. He helped to draft the course of instruction for teaching the intricacies of his profession under the sponsorship of the State Community Colleges and for many years taught this program throughout the state. He also served as a certified first-aid instructor for the American Red Cross.
Trimboli received recognition for his professional dedication. He was recognized several times for his work by the National Police Officers’ Association. He received the Lynn D. Swanson Award given by the International Juvenile Officers Association for his contribution to the prevention of juvenile delinquency. He was recognized by the Jaycees, having received the local Distinguished Services Award and was subsequently selected as one of North Carolina’s “Three Outstanding Young Men,’ an award given by the Jaycees on the state level. He was also honored by the News and Observer as the Tar Heel of the week. Additionally, he received recognition from the Travelers’ Protective Association and the North Carolina Department of Human Resources.
The neighborhood children and grandchildren, when they were visiting, always wanted to “go to Paul’s house” to see what his latest antique toy was. They seldom left empty-handed, but usually had a little treat of some type from their friend.
Paul is survived by his wife, Betty Lou Barfield Trimboli, of Kinston; daughter, Dina Trimboli Whitley, of Morehead; grandson, Walker Alexander Trimboli Whitley, of New Orleans, and many other special family and friends.
The family would like to give a sincere thanks to all of Paul’s caregivers over the past years.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at Westview Cemetery. Jimbo Perry and David Sawyer will officiate.
 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Arendell Parrott Academy, APA, P.O. Box 1297, Kinston, NC 28503 Attn: Finance, or to Queen Street United Methodist Church, 500 N Queen Street, Kinston, NC 28501.