Credit: (AP Photo/Rich Schultz)Tributes and condolences continue to pour in for Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, who died Tuesday at the age of 71.
“Sheila Y. Oliver leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and inspiration,” her family said in a statement released by Gov. Phil Murphy’s office. “We will remember her commitment to the people of New Jersey and her tireless efforts to uplift the community.”
On Monday, the governor’s office announced that Oliver was hospitalized for an undisclosed medical condition and Senate President Nicholas Scutari (D-Union) would take over as acting governor.
Oliver’s friends and colleagues are remembering her as a tireless advocate for social justice, women’s rights and underserved communities.
Rep. Bonnie Watson-Coleman
Oliver and U.S. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-12th) served together in the state Assembly for over a decade, but their friendship dates back much further.
“We recognized that, you know, we were given the opportunity to serve in the space that we were able to serve in, that we were capable and intellectually smart enough to serve in. So it wasn’t whether or not we were ready, it was whether or not … New Jersey (was) ready for us.”
Former state Sen. Loretta Weinberg
Oliver’s colleagues, including former Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg, say she never shied away from an issue she believed in — even if it cost her politically.
“She knew how to be in the backroom of power and yet not always go along but how you move the agenda forward, which is an art form.”
Condolences pour in from across NJ
Acting Governor @SenPresScutari on the passing of LG Sheila Oliver:
"She touched the lives of countless people as a dedicated public official who worked tirelessly to improve opportunities for others…she will continue to be an inspiration for generations of young people." pic.twitter.com/O9xHfTv0e6
— NJ Senate Democrats (@NJSenDems) August 1, 2023
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.
— Speaker Craig J. Coughlin (@SpeakerCoughlin) August 1, 2023
My statement on the tragic passing of our Lieutenant Governor, Sheila Oliver. pic.twitter.com/mWhRV6bJ1m
— Sen. Cory Booker (@SenBooker) August 1, 2023
