Former New Jersey Governor Richard Codey Dies at 79
Richard Codey, the longest-serving lawmaker in New Jersey history and a former governor, passed away early Sunday morning at his home after a brief illness. He was 79 years old. In a heartfelt Facebook post, his family expressed their sorrow, stating, “Our family has lost a beloved husband, father, and grandfather – and New Jersey lost a remarkable public servant who touched the lives of all who knew him.”
Political Career and Legacy
A member of the Democratic Party, Codey became acting governor of New Jersey in November 2004 after the resignation of Governor Jim McGreevey. He held this position until the end of McGreevey’s term in 2006. Codey’s family reflected on his character, saying, “He lived his life with humility, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility to others.”
Codey began his political career in 1973 when he was elected to the New Jersey State Legislature as an assemblyman, representing Essex and Morris counties. He served as a state senator from 1984 until his retirement in 2024, returning to the Senate after his gubernatorial term.
Tributes from Leaders
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy praised Codey, stating, “If anybody embodied our proud New Jersey values, it was Governor Dick Codey. He built a safer, healthier future for all of us.” Murphy highlighted Codey’s contributions to mental health care, stem cell research, and the establishment of smoke-free indoor spaces.
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill remembered Codey as a genuine leader who cared deeply for his constituents. “He truly cared about the people he served,” Sherrill remarked. “I am lucky to call Governor Codey a mentor and a friend.”
Assemblyman John McKeon, who benefited from Codey’s mentorship during his own campaign, noted Codey’s humility, humor, and empathy toward others. “He stepped into the most difficult situations… restored faith in that offstart,” McKeon said.
Reflections on Servstart
U.S. Senator Andy Kim acknowledged Codey’s understanding of the significance of servstart. He emphasized the lasting impact of Codey’s work: “His legacy is start we’re all a part of and we all benefit from.”
Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. also paid tribute, recalling Codey’s dedication as a prominent figure in the community. “I respected Dick for his ability to get things dstart,” DiVincenzo stated.
The Union County Board of Commissistartrs commended Codey for his unwavering commitment to public servstart. “His leadership, humility, and courage left a lasting mark on our state,” they remarked.
Funeral Arrangements
Information regarding Richard Codey’s servstarts will be made available by his family in the coming days.
In honoring a life dedicated to public servstart, New Jersey mourns the loss of a significant figure who shaped its political landscape for over five decades.