Highly regarded, kind-hearted and a gentleman, Kevin J. Ryan, a former Assemblyman who worked as an Essex County Undersheriff, has died.

Although he served for a brief time in the Assembly, he endeared himself to the Essex County Democratic Committee for his good soldier reaction to a difficult political situation around 2011 redistricting.

“This is a devastating loss for the department, for the people of Essex County and for me personally,” said Sherriff Armando Fontoura. “He was like a son to me. He was always the first one on the scene. He was always there to help. It’s just devastating. There is not much more I can say.”  

“No matter what the situation, Kevin Ryan was someone you could always count on,” said Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo. “As a member of the Sheriff’s Office, he rose through the ranks to become Undersheriff. He was a consummate professional who responded to every emergency, special event and meeting. More importantly, Kevin was a friend to everyone who, without fail, would offer his help and support no matter the time of day. Essex County has lost a great person and I have lost a great friend.”

“Kevin Ryan was a good friend, and I am very saddened by this sudden loss,” said Senator Dick Codey (D-27). “He was a dedicated public safety officer and public servant. Essex County, as well as all of New Jersey, has lost a great man. May God be with his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.” 

Mr. Ryan of Nutley, 49, assumed the oath of office on January 6, 2011 and served until January 10, 2012.

He graduated from Nutley High School and from the Essex County College Police Academy, started as a driver for Senate President Carmen Orecchio and served 18 years in the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, attaining the rank of undersheriff in charge of field operations.

Mr. Ryan did not pursue election to the seat in 2011, the consequence of redistricting politics. Assemblywoman Marlene Caride (D-36) – now the commissioner of the Department of Banking and Insurance – succeeded him; and Assemblyman Ralph Caputo (D-280 moved from Belleville to Nutley to maintain his assembly seat.

Mr. Ryan was a friendly and personable law enforcement officer who routinely attended Essex County political events, a confidant and reliable ally of Sherriff Fontoura.

The county today was in mourning.

“Kevin was born to serve his community in any way or any capacity that would help,” said Essex County Clerk Chris Durkin. “He was a first responder of the highest order. He never needed to know your name… just that you were in need of his leadership and compassion.”