HARDWICK TOWNSHIP, NJ (Warren County) – Former Hardwick Township Mayor and Committee member Jim Perry passed away Friday.
“It is with great sadness that the Hardwick Township Committee announces the death of Mr. Jim Perry on August 18th, 2023 due to natural causes,” township officials said.
Jim was a prior Mayor and Committee member of Hardwick for many years. He devoted his time, not only to the Township, but also to the County and State.
Jim achieved the very prestigious Presidency of the New Jersey League of Municipalities, after serving many titles preceding it.
Jim and his daughter, Alyssa Perry, worked tirelessly to educate the public about the dangers of opioid dependency and abuse. He took this platform, not only locally, but to the State and ultimately the White House. He worked diligently in getting legislation passed to expand rehabilitation.
Jim was always one of the first to welcome people to Hardwick. He was extremely proud to live in and represent a small town and made sure people felt welcomed when they arrived from outside towns. He coined the term “Hardwickian” which many still use today.
“I am so saddened to learn of the passing of former Hardwick Mayor, Jim Perry. His profound impact on Warren County and New Jersey will not be forgotten. I had the privilege of knowing Mayor Perry since starting my public service in 2010. He immediately acted as a mentor by introducing me to the New Jersey Conference of Mayors and League of Municipalities. Over the years he became a true friend. There was no issue more important to Jim than fighting the opioid epidemic. He took the loss of his son Jesse and shared that personal story to all who would listen. I know through his advocacy, lives were saved. As we mourn his loss, let us remember his legacy. Jim Perry was what public service is about. He will be greatly missed,” Warren County Commissioner James Kern said in a Facebook post.
“Jim will be dearly missed by many. He left a lasting impression no matter where he went, and he will never be forgotten. He will be missed dearly by his daughter Alyssa as well as his family,” township officials said.
