The statement below is by Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. on behalf of the Camden County Commissioners regarding the passing of New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver

“The Board of Commissioners is devastated to learn that Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver has suddenly passed away today at the age of just 71.

Born and raised in Newark, Sheila was a force to be reckoned with from the moment she stepped foot into the realm of public service in 2003, when she was elected to serve the 34^th Legislative District in the New Jersey General Assembly. It was there that she became the first Black woman in state history to serve as Assembly Speaker, and the second in United States history to lead a state legislative house. In 2017, Gov. Phil Murphy selected her as his running mate, and she was reelected for a second term as lieutenant governor in 2021.

Sheila was passionate about giving a voice to the voiceless. She tirelessly fought for New Jersey residents on issues such as fair and affordable housing, community revitalization, homelessness prevention, education and women’s equality. Sheila’s advocacy often brought her to the South Jersey region, where she fought to improve conditions at some of Camden’s neglected privately owned apartment complexes and showed support for the Camden Historical Society’s Black History Marker Program.

Shelia was also an advocate and believer in the building and operation of the Camden County Police Department and the mission of the organization. She promoted the principles of the agency which were built on de-escalation, conflict resolution and accountability in law enforcement.  

The news of Sheila’s passing comes as an incredible shock to all of us here in Camden County. We lost a remarkable woman who spent her life dedicated to improving and enhancing the lives of all New Jerseyans and her absence will surely be felt. The Board of Commissioners extends our deepest condolences to all of Sheila’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”