board statement on the passing of lt. gov. sheila oliver

Essex County Board of County Commissioners:

“We are shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, an Essex County native, resident, former employee, and former freeholder. Her legacy stretches from the gold dome of Trenton to the kitchen tables of countless marginalized families she fought for in her decades of public service. The trails she blazed in government will help lead the way for young women, especially young women of color, for many years to come. It was evident in all she did that she truly cared for the everyday people of Essex County and the state. Our hearts and thoughts are with her loved ones on this difficult day.”

Commissioner President Wayne Richardson:

“Lt. Gov. Oliver was one of the hardest working people I knew. She never stopped trying to make a better Essex County, and later New Jersey, for those who need it most. She was one-of-a-kind – always composed and articulate, yet fierce and tireless. So much of the work we do in Newark today is built on the foundation she lay down over 20 years ago. May her memory be a joy to those who knew her, and a monument to the heights we can reach for our communities.”