WEST ORANGE, NJ – LeRoy J. Jones Jr., Chairman of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee and the Essex County Democratic Committee, released the following statement on the life of Newark Council President Mildred Crump:

“Today is a very difficult day for my family and I as well as for the many people Mildred Crump served. She was a long-time friend and mentor and has always been one of the first people I think of when reflecting upon what it means to truly be a public servant.

Mildred was a strong supporter of my first election victory as an Essex County Freeholder and then the New Jersey State Legislature. She was an advocate to so many honorable causes, earning her recognition as the Matriarch of the City of Newark.

Mildred poured her heart and soul in service to her community in Newark and beyond and her legacy will endure.

She was a devoted wife to her late husband Cecil and a phenomenal mother to her daughter Sheri and son Larry, who continues the Crump legacy of service.

Mildred epitomized the best of the human spirit and is truly among the best humanity has produced.

We will all miss her. So, please, open up your heart and soul and allow the passion of service and humanity that Mildred embodied and possessed to guide your life from here to eternity.

Rest in eternal peace worthy servant.”