New Jersey’s Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver passed away at the age of 71 from an undisclosed illness on Aug. 1.
A lawmaker for 27 years, the Newark native built a reputation as being a fierce advocate for social justice, affordable housing, opportunities for women, and New Jersey’s economically disadvantaged communities.
In the Assembly, Oliver rose to be Speaker in 2009, just six years after first being elected to the 34th Legislative District. She was selected by Phil Murphy to be his running mate in 2017 and became the state’s second lieutenant governor and first woman of color to win a statewide office for a position created nearly a decade earlier after New Jersey watched two consecutive governors resign.
Family Statement
In a statement from the Oliver family, they noted “she was not only a distinguished public servant but also our cherished daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and hero. 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. May her memory be a source of comfort and strength to all who knew her.”
The extent of Oliver’s illness was unknown until the governor’s office announced on July 31 that she was receiving medical care at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston and was unable to discharge the duties of Acting Governor as Murphy had left for a two week family vacation this past weekend.
State Senate President Nicholas Scutari has assumed the duties of Acting Governor until Murphy returns back to New Jersey, who said he is cutting his Italian vacation short to return back to the Garden State.
Murphy has 45 days to make the appointment; the post is a direct appointment that does not require Senate confirmation nor a special election.
Reaction from North Jersey Lawmakers
Gov. Phil Murphy
When I selected her to be my running mate in 2017, Lieutenant Governor Oliver was already a trailblazer in every sense of the word. She had already made history as 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. I knew then that her decades of public service made her the ideal partner for me to lead the State of New Jersey. It was the best decision I ever made.
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.
As someone who was born and raised in Newark, and who has called East Orange home for more than 40 years, Sheila did not view these issues in the abstract because she lived with them every day of her life. She brought a unique and invaluable perspective to our public policy discourse and served as an inspiration to millions of women and girls everywhere, especially young women of color.
Beyond all of that, she was an incredibly genuine and kind person whose friendship and partnership will be irreplaceable. 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.”
Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin
“Tish and I extend our condolences to the Oliver family, and all who mourn this great lady. I am deeply saddened by the passing of our Lt. Governor, Sheila Oliver. I have known Sheila since my first day in the legislature. She was my first Speaker. I had a front row seat to see her break the glass ceiling and become New Jersey’s first Black woman Speaker, and New Jersey’s first Black Lieutenant Governor. She was dedicated to serving the people of New Jersey.”
Sheila was an extraordinary person. She was deeply committed to the people she served, and the state she loved. We will miss her wisdom, leadership, and passion. On a personal level, Tish and I will miss our friend, and I will cherish the 14 years we shared serving New Jersey together.”
State Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz
“Today, we bid farewell to a remarkable woman who was a trailblazer in this state, a friend to so many, but to me, family.
Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver embodied the spirit of a warrior, she was a fierce advocate for our communities and led with resilience and compassion. She was not only a fearless fighter for the voiceless, but she was also a pioneer who shattered glass ceilings and opened doors for so many women and especially women of color. Born and raised in Newark, she carried the essence of her diverse upbringing throughout her distinguished career in public service.
“Sheila Oliver’s legacy will forever be etched in New Jersey’s history as the first woman of color to hold a statewide elected office. Her passion for social justice, women’s equality, and education was unwavering, and she used her position to advocate for a fairer and more equitable society. As Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs, she championed initiatives to provide fair and affordable housing, uplift distressed communities, and prevent homelessness.
“Her impact extended beyond legislation; she touched the lives of countless individuals through mentorship and friendship. Her dedication to public service was rooted in the belief that government should work for the people, and she lived by that principle every day.
“Today, we mourn the loss of a true shero, advocate, and friend. Let us honor her memory by continuing the work she started, striving for a better, more just society for all New Jersey residents. Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver, your light will forever shine in our hearts and we pray that you understood the profound impact your service has had to this State. Sammy, Silver and I are forever in your debt and we will profoundly miss you. Rest in power my sister.”
State Senate President Nicholas Scutari
“This is a heartbreaking loss for all of us who knew and admired Sheila Oliver. She touched the lives of countless people as a dedicated public official who worked tirelessly to improve opportunities for others. She has a record of accomplishment that is unmatched.
I was fortunate to work closely with Sheila when she served in the Assembly and as Lieutenant Governor, where I gained even greater respect for her leadership skills and appreciation for her selfless human qualities.
Sheila was a trailblazer who broke through glass ceilings to become the first woman of color to serve as Assembly Speaker and as Lieutenant Governor. I believe she will continue to be an inspiration for generations of young people.
I extend my sincere condolences to the Oliver family in this time of grief. We share in your loss.”
State Sen. Richard Codey
“Sheila Oliver was the embodiment of the New Jersey version of the American Dream and paved the way for future generations throughout the course of her history-making career. Her and I were great friends and were once teammates, having run off the line in a tightly contested race in the 1990s with LeRoy Jones. She always made us proud. My family and I send our deepest condolences to Sheila and her family.”
New Jersey Democratic State Committee Chairman LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.
“I am absolutely heartbroken by the passing of one of New Jersey’s most accomplished and devoted public servants, an exemplary role model for Black women and girls throughout our state, and my very dear friend and fellow East Orange resident, Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver.
Throughout her many years in elected office and government service, Sheila Oliver was a trailblazer and a true icon for representation, diversity and progress. As our state’s first Black woman to serve as Assembly Speaker and as Lt. Governor, Sheila leaves behind a legacy of breaking barriers that will never be forgotten.
On behalf of the entire New Jersey Democratic State Committee, my wife Jackie and I offer our heartfelt condolences to Lt. Governor Oliver’s family and friends during this time of mourning, as well as to the many people she inspired throughout our state with the commitment she demonstrated to social justice, equality and making sure that working families were given the support they need to thrive. Rest in Peace Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver.”
Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr.
“I’m devastated to learn of the passing of my good friend, my mentor, my neighbor and my Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver,. Her strong leadership and compassion for people has served the state for so many years in many capacities.
Her oratory skills were second to none. You were always humbled when she used those skills to speak of you. She leaves a void in our hearts. I want to send my most heartfelt condolences to the entire Oliver family at this tragic time. I will miss my Bock Avenue neighbor.”
Rep. Mikie Sherrill
“A true trailblazer, changemaker, and tireless public servant — I join all New Jerseyans as we mourn the passing of our friend and Lieutenant Governor, Sheila Oliver.
As the first Black woman to serve as Assembly Speaker, and the first woman of color to serve in statewide elected office, Sheila time and again made history and was an inspiration to young girls across New Jersey.
A tough as nails ‘Jersey Girl,’ Sheila fought for a more equitable state and to revitalize our cities, improve public schools, and to tackle the epidemic of gun violence. Throughout her time in public office, she made her native Essex County proud with her leadership, grace, and effectiveness.
New Jersey is a better place because of Sheila’s service. Her legacy will be an inspiration for generations to come. I send my deepest condolences to her family as they grieve during this difficult time.”
Sen. Bob Menendez
“To say that I am devastated by today’s news is an understatement.
Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver was a relentless voice for the voiceless, a passionate advocate for the disadvantaged, and a champion for the most important issues facing the Garden State. From her earliest victories in public service when she saved affordable housing for low-income residents in Newark to her trailblazing service as the first African American woman to lead the General Assembly as Speaker, Lieutenant Governor Oliver was an inspiration to all of us who dream of an equal and prosperous future.
In 2018, she delivered the keynote address at my annual Women of Distinction awards ceremony — a powerful speech that continues to serve as a clarion call for investing in working class women and families. This is how I will choose to remember Lieutenant Governor Oliver: as a fighter, as a reformer, and as a committed leader for a better tomorrow in our state. Nadine and I are keeping the Oliver family and their loved ones in our hearts as we mourn her profound loss and honor her incredible legacy.”
Sen. Cory Booker
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the Honorable Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, a trailblazer and dedicated public servant.
Lt. Governor Oliver’s legacy of service and devotion to the people of New Jersey will never be forgotten. She spent 27 years in public office, where she fought tirelessly for social justice, affordable housing, and economic opportunity for New Jerseyans, and especially for communities too often left out and left without a voice.
I was fortunate enough to have benefited from Sheila’s leadership and advocacy throughout my career as Mayor of Newark, where she was born and raised, and again as U.S. Senator. I will miss her and her inspiring leadership and yet her legacy will live on for countless generations to come.
Lt. Governor Oliver made history as the first Black woman to serve as Assembly speaker and the first to win a statewide election in New Jersey. Because of her, young women all across our state know it is possible to reach new heights while also serving others.
My heart is heavy, and my condolences and prayers are with Lt. Governor Oliver’s family, friends, and the people of New Jersey as we grieve this immeasurable loss.”
Rep. Josh Gottheimer
“New Jersey lost a trailblazer today. Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver was a fighter for the voiceless. She was the first woman of color elected to statewide office in NJ and the first Black woman to serve as NJ’s Speaker of the Assembly. My thoughts are with her family. May her memory be a blessing.”
Rep. Tom Kean Jr.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver. She was a dedicated public servant who brought passion, integrity, and compassion to her work. From East Orange to the Statehouse, Lieutenant Governor Oliver’s commitment to improving the lives of her constituents was tireless. Her leadership and advocacy will be sorely missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.”
Rep. Rob Menendez
“Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver was a true public servant as she brought her experiences and communities with her to each position she held. As the first Black woman to serve as Speaker of the New Jersey General Assembly, and as Lieutenant Governor, she was also a trailblazer and an unrelenting fighter for the people of New Jersey who dedicated decades of her life to public service.
This is a devastating loss for our state, for all the communities that she served in the Assembly and later as Lieutenant Governor and Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs. I will always carry with me the opportunities I had to spend in her company and watch her masterfully perform her duties and obligations to the great people of the State of New Jersey whom she cherished. My thoughts and deepest condolences are with Lieutenant Governor Oliver’s family, friends, and all New Jerseyans who today lost one of their biggest champions in government.”
Rep. Bill Pascrell
“This is devastating news. I am shocked at the passing of Lieutenant Governor Oliver. Sheila is a pathbreaker and has been one of the foremost leaders of our great state for decades. I am still processing this. My prayers are with Sheila’s family and loved ones right now.”
Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo
“I am saddened by the passing of Sheila Oliver. I met Sheila over 50 years ago when we were both in high school. We worked together in County government and served together on the Board of Freeholders.
Sheila was always someone I could turn to for help and her knowledge of government is extraordinary having served on every level of government. She broke barriers in Trenton to become our first African American Assembly Speaker and first African American Lieutenant Governor.
More importantly, Sheila only cared about helping people and making the lives of those in need better. Sheila made a tremendous impact on Essex County and New Jersey, and I am going to miss her.”
State Sen. Nellie Pou
“I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of my long-time friend and colleague, Lt. Governor Shelia Oliver. The Lieutenant Governor and I served side by side in the General Assembly, where she was well-known as a tireless advocate for New Jersey families and children, and especially for those living in our underserved communities.
New Jersey has lost a determined and committed public servant, while many of us who knew her have lost a sister in the fight to make our state more livable and equitable for all its residents.”
Former State Sen. Diane Allen, the 2021 Republican nominee for Lt. Governor
“Lt. Governor Oliver served the people of New Jersey with poise, dignity and passion. Throughout our time together in Trenton, and even through the 2021 campaign, Sheila was always warm, thoughtful, and generous of spirit. New Jersey has truly lost a special and significant public servant.”
Former Lieutenant Gov. Kim Guadagno
”Sheila Oliver and I shared a unique bond, as the only Lt. Governors in the State of New Jersey. We shared insights into the role & a commitment to public service. She was the kind of leader who inspired everyone she met. This is a huge loss for the state of New Jersey and for me personally.”
State Senate Minority Leader Anthony Bucco
“On behalf of the Senate Republican caucus, we are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of our dear friend, and colleague, Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver. Her legacy will forever live on as a trailblazer for women in New Jersey, becoming not only the first Black woman to serve as Speaker of the General Assembly, but also just the second in the Nation to lead a legislative body.
When I first entered the General Assembly, I had the honor of working with Sheila as Speaker. She was a devout public servant and an incredibly kind person. I know many of our members will have fond memories of serving with Sheila and her professionalism. I will miss our friendship and work together. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.”
Assemblyman Raj Mukherji
“Natasha and I extend our deepest condolences to the Oliver family and to the people of New Jersey as we collectively mourn the passing of a lioness, who has had profound impact on our state while serving in the leadership of two branches of our state government and profound impact on me personally as a friend and mentor.
The second Black woman in American history to lead a house of the Legislature and the first in our state, she was also our first lieutenant governor of color. Her incredible work as DCA commissioner directly led to staving off homelessness as the pandemic eviction moratorium was expiring.
I fondly recall dancing with Sheila at my wedding as well as sponsoring bills together with her during my first term on issues ranging from the elimination of Work First NJ family caps and improving assistance to our most vulnerable citizens to honoring our veterans. Almighty God, thank you for calling on her to serve the public, and look after her departed soul. Lieutenant Governor Oliver, you will be missed, but never forgotten.”
Essex County Republican Chairman Al Barlas
“Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver had a lot of “firsts” during her distinguished career in public service, but first and foremost she was a ferocious advocate for her constituents. She was devoted her hometown of East Orange and the residents of Essex County and New Jersey. Today, the state lost a trailblazer who gave selflessly for causes she believed in, and may her family know that the Lt. Governor left a lasting mark on the lives of so many in our state. Rest in peace, Lt. Governor.”
Bergen County Democratic Chairman Paul Juliano
“I am shocked and heartbroken to hear of the passing of Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver. In a life dedicated to service, Sheila Oliver was a trailblazing leader who inspired countless people and whose far-reaching contributions made an indelible impact on her community and our state. My thoughts are with her family, friends, and the people of New Jersey as we grieve her loss.”
Former State Senate President Steve Sweeney
“First and foremost, Sheila Oliver was my friend. She served the state of New Jersey with distinction and poise. As Lt. Governor, Assembly Speaker, & County Freeholder, she fought tirelessly for those who were marginalized & disadvantaged.”
New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way
“I’m deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver. She was more than a trusted colleague to me. Sheila was also a cherished friend, mentor, and role model to me and countless other African American women who have chosen a career in public service. I will miss her dearly. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all who loved and admired her.”
New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin
“Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver is a hero. She was brilliant. She was fearless. And she was unfailingly kind. Her life was marked by service – to her community, her county, her state, and her country. Millions of New Jerseyans live in a more just and equitable state thanks to her efforts.
The first woman of color to serve as Speaker of New Jersey’s General Assembly and to hold statewide office, she was a trailblazer and an inspiration to us all. She showed young women, in particular, that truly anything is possible.
But more than anything, she never forgot what this work was all about: the people. And she always believed things could get better – better for an individual, better for a community, better for a state. She could spend hours talking about the impact of a new housing development on a particular neighborhood or how a hospital program would provide meaningful care to people who previously lacked access. She always cut through the nonsense and the politics and right to the core of an issue, right to what mattered.
Despite her stature, it was never about her – it was always about the people. She remembered everyone, and treated each person with the same dignity and respect. No one I have ever met understood the levers of government and how they could be used to help people better than Sheila Oliver.
I am immensely grateful to have been able to learn some small amount from her example and I know that her impact will be felt for generations to come. My heart goes out to her to family and loved ones, her community in East Orange, and the millions of people across our state and our country who were inspired by her example.
The world needs more Sheila Olivers. May she rest in peace.”
Sheila…you were in your own league. Refreshing and approachable…smart. Guide these wannabes, girl…welcome heaven…in all its’ glory!
My sincere condolences to your family.