TRENTON - Governor Murphy today signed Executive Order No. 372 ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff from Friday, December 13, 2024 through Sunday, December 15, 2024 in recognition and mourning of a dedicated public servant, former Newark City Council President Mildred Coleman Crump.

Mildred Crump passed away on December 1, 2024, at the age of 86. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Cecil, and is survived by her sister, Jean Abernathy Smith; her son, Cecil Lawrence “Larry” Crump; her daughter, Sheri E. “Sage” Crump; and her grandchildren. 

Mildred Crump moved to New Jersey with her husband, Cecil Crump, in 1965. Prior to joining the Newark City Council, she became the state’s first Black Braille teacher. In 1994, she was elected to the Newark City Council, becoming the first Black woman to hold that position. In 2006, she made history again as the first woman to serve as President of the Newark City Council, a role she held for over a decade. Throughout her tenure, Council President Crump was a tireless advocate for the most vulnerable, working to uplift women, children, senior citizens, families, and residents with disabilities across Newark. Beyond her service in government, Council President Crump leaves behind a lasting legacy of leadership and unwavering dedication to her Newark community and the State of New Jersey. 

“Former Council President Mildred Crump was a public servant renowned for her tenacity, kindness, and integrity,” said Governor Murphy. “Mildred advocated to protect the most vulnerable residents within her community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her loved ones and express our gratitude for her years of dedicated service.” 

For a copy of Executive Order No. 372, click here.