On April 24, 2024 New Jersey’s 10th District Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. passed away after health complications landed him in the hospital two weeks ago. He was 65 years old, and had served in the same post as his father, Donald M. Payne, Sr.
Here now are statements from many prominent NJ figures:
Statement from State Senator Britnee N. Timberlake on the Passing of Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.
“United States Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. was an extraordinary individual who dedicated his entire life and breath to serving the community. He was my friend, and a good one to have. Congressman Payne, Jr. walked among us all as a humble servant, despite his great titles and accomplishments. His unique style, characterized by bright colors, bow ties, and his iconic “RUN DMP” shirt, reflected his vibrant personality and passion for life. His journey from the Newark Municipal Council to the U.S. Congress showcased his unwavering commitment to public service, championing healthcare equity, and bringing home over 900 million dollars for critical infrastructure and transportation projects like the Gateway Project, and the remediation of train stations in his district.
“His global advocacy included raising awareness about eradicating terrorist groups like Boko Haram, and his deep care for his community was evident in his efforts to prevent firefighter deaths and support first responders. Congressman Payne, Jr. was a man of many talents, having founded organizations like the Newark South Ward Junior Democrats and advised the YMCA Youth in Government program.
“As we mourn the passing of this modern-day hero, let us remember his legacy. A graphic arts graduate from Kean University, he was not just a politician but a husband, father, friend, leader, role model, and compassionate advocate. My husband Dimitri M. Charles, Sr., our children, and I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Beatrice, their triplets Donald III, Jack, and Yvonne, and his extended family, including his sister Nicole and former NJ State Assemblymen Bill Payne and Craig Stanley. We pray for your strength during this difficult time and want you to know how profoundly he touched our lives, and that our thoughts are with you.”
Statement by Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.:
“The Payne family has a legacy of public service and Donald Payne Jr. continued that tradition as an elected official representing our community as a Councilman, Freeholder and Congressman. He was a passionate leader and advocate who adored Newark and Essex County and cared deeply about our residents. I am saddened by his passing. My deepest condolences and prayers go out to his family.”
Mayor Ras J. Baraka’s Statement On Passing Of U.S. Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr.
“Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr. carried his devotion to the residents of Newark from his first teenage involvement as founder of the Newark South Ward Junior Democrats, through his service as President of our Municipal Council, to his acclaimed advocacy for New Jersey as Representative in Congress. His dogged determination to win appropriations to win federal funding for the Gateway Project resulted in a $900 million appropriation to upgrade and refashion the infrastructure connecting downtown New York City to the heart of Newark, and reinvigorate the greater Northeast transportation corridor.
“Through his career, Representative Payne gained expertise in transportation, bridges, and tunnels, but his personal traits also fostered connections. He had a talent for engaging a wide spectrum of collaborators for projects he promoted, and strived to increase inclusive opportunities and diversity by inviting women- and minority-owned businesses.
“As the son and namesake of the first African-American to represent New Jersey as a U.S. Congressman, Representative Payne had leadership and love for Newark in his DNA.
“All Newarkers mourn the loss of this great, compassionate man today. I mourn the loss of a stalwart friend and ally and send my deepest condolences to his wife Beatrice, his children, and all his loved ones.
Statement from Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin on the Passing of Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of Congressman Donald Payne, Jr., an unwavering advocate for the people of New Jersey.
“From his roots as a Newark city council president to his tenure in Congress, Donald’s profound understanding of our communities’ needs guided his every action. Following in his father’s footsteps, Donald worked tirelessly and tenaciously, especially for the many working families throughout New Jersey. He was a champion for the people – from securing environmental justice, fighting for clean drinking water, reducing gun violence, and ensuring access to voting rights.
“As public servants, he’s set an example for us all, and we’ll continue to honor his legacy of service and compassion. My thoughts are with his family, his loved ones, and the countless New Jerseyans whose lives he touched.
Senator John McKeon Statement on the Passing of U.S. Representative Donald Payne Jr.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to the Payne family as we remember the incredible life and advocacy of Representative Donald Payne Jr. Rep. Payne was a real gentleman, always sincere in his service and dedicated to his constituents. His persistence in advancing progressive policy on the environment, reproductive freedom, and racial justice has inspired and moved me deeply. I hope Rep. Payne’s family and friends can find some solace in the positive mark he left on our state.”
Statement from Governor Murphy on the Passing of Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.
“Tammy and I are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our friend, and a steadfast champion for the people of New Jersey, Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.
“With his signature bowtie, big heart, and tenacious spirit, Donald embodied the very best of public service. As a former union worker and toll collector, he deeply understood the struggles our working families face, and he fought valiantly to serve their needs, every single day. That purpose was the light that guided him through his early years as Newark City Council President and during his tenure on the Essex County Board of Commissioners. And it guided him still through his more than a decade of service in Congress.
“It was my great honor to work side-by-side with Donald to build a stronger and fairer New Jersey, and we will hold his memory close to our hearts as we build upon the Payne family’s deep legacy of service in advocating for the communities they served so dearly.
“Donald’s love will live on in the homes of his neighbors in Newark, who now have access to safe drinking water, and in the good-paying jobs he helped create for his brothers and sisters in labor. And it will live on in his wife Beatrice, and their three children, Donald III, Jack, and Yvonne, who were the pride of his life. Our heartfelt prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
A Post on X (fka Twitter) from U.S. Senator Cory A. Booker
“I am heartbroken by the loss of my friend, Donald Payne, Jr. It was an honor to serve Newark and our nation alongside him for nearly 20 years. His dedication to serving others, his deep human decency, and his love of people is a legacy that will last well beyond his passing.”
