Former New Jersey Governor Richard Codey Dies at 79, Leaving Lasting Legacy of Public Service.
Richard Codey, the longest-serving lawmaker in New Jersey's history and a former governor, has passed away at the age of 79. The news was announced by his family on Sunday morning.
According to reports, Codey died peacefully at his home after a brief illness. A Democrat, he became acting governor following Governor Jim McGreevey's resignation in November 2004 and served out the remainder of McGreevey's term until 2006.
Throughout his illustrious career, Codey was known for his commitment to public service and his ability to bring people together. He spent over 50 years in the New Jersey State Legislature, serving as both an assemblyman and a state senator before being appointed governor.
Codey's legacy is one of integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to doing what was right. His family described him as "a beloved husband, father, and grandfather" who touched the lives of everyone he met.
Leaders across party lines have paid tribute to Codey, including Governor Phil Murphy, who called him a champion for funding mental health care and stem cell research, and Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill, who praised his work on gun safety and substance abuse. U.S. Sen. Andy Kim also reflected on Codey's enduring legacy, saying he understood the importance of service and used that drive to make New Jersey a better place.
Codey's impact will be deeply felt in New Jersey, where he dedicated over half a century to public service. His dedication to his constituents earned him numerous accolades, including the naming of the Dick Codey Arena in his honor.
A celebration of Codey's life and legacy is expected to take place in the coming days, but for now, his family has requested that mourners respect their wishes and share memories of this remarkable public servant.
Richard Codey, the longest-serving lawmaker in New Jersey's history and a former governor, has passed away at the age of 79. The news was announced by his family on Sunday morning.
According to reports, Codey died peacefully at his home after a brief illness. A Democrat, he became acting governor following Governor Jim McGreevey's resignation in November 2004 and served out the remainder of McGreevey's term until 2006.
Throughout his illustrious career, Codey was known for his commitment to public service and his ability to bring people together. He spent over 50 years in the New Jersey State Legislature, serving as both an assemblyman and a state senator before being appointed governor.
Codey's legacy is one of integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to doing what was right. His family described him as "a beloved husband, father, and grandfather" who touched the lives of everyone he met.
Leaders across party lines have paid tribute to Codey, including Governor Phil Murphy, who called him a champion for funding mental health care and stem cell research, and Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill, who praised his work on gun safety and substance abuse. U.S. Sen. Andy Kim also reflected on Codey's enduring legacy, saying he understood the importance of service and used that drive to make New Jersey a better place.
Codey's impact will be deeply felt in New Jersey, where he dedicated over half a century to public service. His dedication to his constituents earned him numerous accolades, including the naming of the Dick Codey Arena in his honor.
A celebration of Codey's life and legacy is expected to take place in the coming days, but for now, his family has requested that mourners respect their wishes and share memories of this remarkable public servant.
I just read about Richard Codey passing away at 79 
and I gotta think, what's the real motive behind these politicians paying tribute to him? 
You know, they're all trying to cover up something 
, but I'm not buying it. They're talking about his legacy of public service and how he brought people together 
, but what if that's just a smokescreen? 
Maybe there's more to it than meets the eye 
.
? Something fishy is going on here 
. And what about all these accolades being awarded to him? The Dick Codey Arena, huh? That's just a bunch of PR spin 
. I'm not saying he wasn't a good guy or anything, but come on, let's not get too caught up in the nostalgia 
.
. There's gotta be more to it than just a simple celebration of his life 
.
I'm so saddened by the news of Richard Codey's passing 
. He was truly a legend in New Jersey politics & his legacy will live on forever 
. I mean, 50+ years of service is insane! 
The guy was like Rocky Balboa - he kept getting back up after every punch 
. His commitment to public service & mental health care is something we can all learn from 
. I'm not surprised politicians are paying tribute to him - he's a true champion for doing what's right 
. My condolences to his family, we'll miss this amazing public servant 
79 and still going strong... or so we thought 
. Codey was definitely a pillar of integrity and all that jazz, no doubt about it 
. I mean who needs to have personal views when you can just be the ultimate team player? 
And let's not forget his impressive record as an assemblyman and state senator - like, 50+ years of showing up on time, what a feat! 
. Seriously though, he was probably one of those rare politicians who actually listened to people... I mean we'll never know now 
he was more than just a gov or lawmaker, he wuz a uniter & a champion 4 good causes 
. But at the same time, I'm so glad he did get to see some of his initiatives through and leave a lasting legacy 
. But overall, Codey was definitely a public servant to be remembered and honored 
.
he was an inspiration to me growing up, always talking about how service is the key to making a difference 
his legacy will live on in New Jersey and beyond 
I remember a thread where we were talking about his efforts to reduce property taxes in NJ... what a pioneer for the people! 
50+ years in public service is insane! his legacy will live on through all the lives he touched 
i'm sure we'll be seeing plenty of stories and tributes about him in the coming days 
what an inspiration to us all! 
, your impact will be felt for generations to come... and I'm sure his family is already planning an epic celebration 
79 was a big age for him but he still managed to do so much good in N.J 
and got things done 
I love how leaders from both sides are paying tribute to him 
let's keep his memory alive by doing more good deeds for others 
. What's crazy is how many leaders are already paying tribute to him, it just goes to show how much he was respected and admired... a true public servant 
... she used to play these crazy beautiful Chopin pieces when I was a kid, it always gives me goosebumps... anyway, Codey seems like an amazing guy, his dedication to public service is really inspiring... I wonder if they'll ever make a movie about him? or maybe someone should write a book about all the stuff he accomplished in New Jersey... by the way, has anyone tried that new pasta place downtown? heard it's pretty good 
. But seriously, this guy left a lasting impact on New Jersey, and we should all be grateful for that. I mean, who else can say they spent 50+ years serving the people? That's commitment, folks!