NJ Now: Honoring Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver. Watch the My9 interview with NJDSC Chairman, LeRoy J. Jones Jr.
Full Memorial Service
Quotes & Reflections
“Sheila Oliver was a trailblazer and a true icon for representation, diversity and progress,” said NJDSC Chairman, LeRoy J. Jones Jr. “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.”
“I knew 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,” said Governor Murphy. “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. She was an incredibly genuine and kind person whose friendship and partnership will be irreplaceable.”
“How many people can literally say they have met the physical manifestation of blazing a trail for you? And that’s what she did for me,” said Assemblywoman Britnee Timberlake, who was Oliver’s replacement in the legislative district when Oliver became lieutenant governor. “Lieutenant Sheila Y. Oliver was my dear friend, my mentor. This very desk that I sit at is hers. This chair I sit in is hers. Looking at her as an icon in those spaces did something for this young Black woman.”
“Lt. Governor Oliver’s legacy of service and devotion to the people of New Jersey will never be forgotten,” said Senator Cory Booker. “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.”
“This is a heartbreaking loss for all of us who knew and admired Sheila Oliver,” said Senate President Nicholas Scutari. “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.”
“She’s an icon, but she’s also one of the most kind, gentle, sweet and dynamic women that you ever get the pleasure of knowing. So for her not to be here is a seismic shift and seismic loss,” said Tai Cooper, the chief community development officer for the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.
“Lt. Governor Oliver is a living testament to the importance of having Black women in positions of power to represent the needs and values of our community,” said Rev. Al Sharpton. “Lt. Governor Oliver fought to ensure more women — and more Black women in particular — have the opportunity to serve in elected office. Not satisfied with her own success, she paved the way for a new generation as well.”
Stories
WHYY (includes photo carousel):
N.J. Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver celebrated in her hometown of Newark
Jersey Journal (includes photo carousel):
‘God gave us Sheila Oliver.’ Political and entertainment royalty honor N.J.’s late Lt. Gov.
New Jersey Globe:
Murphy’s remarks at Oliver memorial service
NY Times:
Sheila Oliver, New Jersey’s Trailblazing Lieutenant Governor, Has Died
Politico:
New Jersey bids final farewell to Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, capping a 3-day tribute
CBS New York:
Women mentored by late New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver share memories and the profound impact she made on many
Sheila Oliver leaves behind a legacy of helping those in need
Gothamist:
Funeral for NJ’s late Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver concludes 3-day state service