Richard Codey’s family announced the news of his death on Facebook, calling him “a beloved husband, father and grandfather.” (Hal Brown for New Jersey Monitor)
Richard Codey, the state’s longest-serving lawmaker who served as acting governor, died Sunday after an illness. He was 79.
Codey’s family announced the news on Facebook, calling him “a beloved husband, father and grandfather.”
“New Jersey lost a remarkable public servant who touched the lives of all who knew him,” they said.
Codey, a Democrat, retired from the New Jersey Legislature in January 2024, capping 50 years as a member of the body representing parts of Essex County. He was first elected to the state Assembly in 1973 and became a state senator in 1982. He served as acting governor starting in 2004 following the resignation of Gov. Jim McGreevey, and again for nearly a month when Gov. Jon Corzine was injured in a car crash in 2007.
Senate President Nicholas Scutari (D-Union) called Codey “a remarkable public servant.”
“Dick Codey lived his life with humility, compassion and a deep sense of responsibility. He spoke the truth when others wouldn’t and he fought tirelessly to improve the lives of the people of New Jersey during his record-setting 50 years of service in the Legislature and as Governor. He gained the trust and respect of other public officials and made friends with Presidents just as easily as he did with strangers in all-night diners,” Scutari said.
Sen. Anthony Bucco (R-Morris), the Senate’s minority leader, said he is “heartbroken” over the loss.
“We worked together on many important issues that helped move New Jersey forward, and I came to know him as a true friend and someone who led with humility, kindness, and humor. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of service and integrity that will be felt for generations. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those whose lives he touched during this very difficult time,” Bucco said.
Reprinted with permission of New Jersey Monitor.
