U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr., a dedicated public servant from New Jersey, passed away at the age of 65 after suffering a heart attack earlier this month. Known for his signature bowtie and unwavering commitment to his constituents, Payne was remembered by Governor Phil Murphy as a “steadfast champion for the people of New Jersey.”
Prior to his time in Congress, Payne served as the president of Newark City Council and on the Essex County Board of Commissioners. His dedication to serving working families was evident in his advocacy for their needs and his understanding of their struggles, stemming from his own background as a former union worker and toll collector.
Payne’s passing was attributed to complications from diabetes, a condition he had been battling. He followed in his father’s footsteps, Donald Milford Payne, who previously held the congressional seat before him. Payne successfully ran in a special election to succeed his father in 2012 and had been reelected six times since.
Colleagues and friends, like Democratic U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, praised Payne for his advocacy on important issues such as diabetes and colorectal cancer prevention, as well as his efforts to replace lead pipes in Newark. Payne is survived by his wife, Beatrice, and their three children.
The loss of Donald Payne Jr. leaves a void in the New Jersey political landscape, as he was known for his dedication, compassion, and tireless work on behalf of his constituents. His legacy as a public servant will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.