NJ Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver
LIVINGSTON – New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver, 71, died today of an undisclosed ailment at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, her family announced.
“She was not only a distinguished public servant but also our cherished daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and hero,” they said in a statement.
She was taken to the hospital yesterday suffering from an undisclosed ailment and was unable to discharge her duties as acting governor while Gov. Phil Murphy is in Italy with his family.
Senate President, Sen. Nicholas Scutari is currently serving as acting governor.
The family requested privacy while they mourn the loss of “their beloved Sheila.”
“Sheila Y. Oliver leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and inspiration. We will remember her commitment to the people of New Jersey and her tireless efforts to uplift the community,” the statement said.
Calling Oliver a “trailblazer,” Murphy said he and First Lady Tammy Murphy and their children are “incredibly saddened and distraught to learn of the passing of our dear friend, colleague, and partner in government.”
Oliver was the first Black woman to serve as speaker of the General Assembly, and just the second Black woman in the nation’s history to lead a house of a state legislature.
“In the five and a half years that we served together in office, in addition to her responsibilities as Lieutenant Governor, Sheila led the Department of Community Affairs, handling some of the most challenging issues facing our State, including the revitalization of our cities, affordable housing obligations, and homelessness prevention,” Murphy said.
Oliver was born and raised in Newark and lived in East Orange for more than 40 years.
Murphy said she brought a unique perspective to public policy and inspiring millions of women, especially those of color.
“Beyond all of that, she was an incredibly genuine and kind person whose friendship and partnership will be irreplaceable,” Murphy said. “We ask that you all keep the Oliver family and all those who knew and loved her in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Oliver also served as commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs supporting New Jersey’s 564 municipalities.
Information about memorial services will be announced later.
NJ Lt. Gov. Shiela Oliver, left, with Atlantic Cape President Barbara Gaba.
