State Funeral for New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver Held in Newark

NEWARK, N.J. — The state funeral for New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver was held on Saturday in Newark. This marked the end of the three-day celebration of her life and legacy. The memorial service began at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The eulogy was delivered by Gov. Phil Murphy and Rev. Al Sharpton.

After lying in state at the New Jersey State House in Trenton, and then at the Essex County Courthouse in Newark, which was her hometown, Oliver’s funeral proceeded. Oliver, 71, passed away while in office on August 1. The cause of death was an undisclosed illness.

Oliver was a political trailblazer. She was the first woman of color elected to statewide office in New Jersey and the first Black woman to serve as the state’s lieutenant governor.

Friends described Oliver as someone who deeply cared about uplifting everyone, especially women. Gov. Murphy referred to Oliver as his greatest partner in government, an inspiration, and an irreplaceable friend. He highlighted how he relied on her to shape the administration’s policies on various issues.

State Sen. Theresa Ruiz mentioned that Oliver possessed a tremendous amount of power and influence. Despite her quiet nature, she successfully completed her tasks, ensuring that no one was left behind.

Following the funeral service, the Honor Guard accompanied Oliver’s casket to the cemetery for a private ceremony.

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