NEW JERSEY — Former New Jersey Gov. Richard J. Codey, a towering figure in state politics who spent a record-setting 50 years in the Legislature and became a national leader on mental health policy, died peacefully at home Sunday surrounded by family after a brief illness, his family announced. He was 79.
“Our family has lost a beloved husband, father and grandfather — and New Jersey lost a remarkable public servant who touched the lives of all who knew him,” the family said in a statement posted to Codey’s Facebook page. “He lived his life with humility, compassion and a deep sense of responsibility to others. He spoke the truth when others wouldn’t and fought tirelessly for the people of New Jersey during his record-setting 50 years in the Legislature.”
Codey, a Democrat from Essex County, served as governor from 2004 to 2006 after the resignation of Gov. Jim McGreevey and remained one of the most influential lawmakers in state history. Known for his blunt honesty and deep accessibility, Codey was as comfortable talking policy with presidents as he was chatting with strangers in late-night diners, colleagues said.
“We take comfort in knowing how many people he helped, inspired and stood up for over the years,” the family said, adding that information about funeral services would be shared in the coming days.
Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum Sunday, with leaders praising Codey’s integrity, compassion and lifelong commitment to public service.
“New Jersey lost a giant today,” said U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, a Democrat whose district includes parts of northern New Jersey. “Governor Codey was not only a great leader of our state, but also a friend to so many of us in public service. His lifelong commitment to NJ set the standard.”
Gov. Phil Murphy said Codey embodied the state’s values and left a legacy that extended far beyond the State House.
“If anybody embodied our proud New Jersey values, it was Governor Dick Codey,” Murphy said. “Whether as Governor or as the longest-serving lawmaker in New Jersey history, Dick built a safer, healthier future for all of us.”
Murphy credited Codey with championing mental health funding, stem cell research and smoke-free indoor spaces, and highlighted his community roles as a youth basketball coach and funeral director.
“When Dick announced his retirement from the Legislature back in 2023, he wisely observed that ‘public service is about making a difference in the lives of people,’” Murphy said. “For more than half a century, Dick did exactly that.”
Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, a longtime friend, said Codey’s influence reshaped New Jersey’s approach to mental health and public service.
“Dick’s humble yet powerful personality set an example of what a single political leader can do when he has the vision and ability to show us what was needed and how to get things done,” Carroll said, calling Codey’s compassion and dedication to family an enduring inspiration.
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill said Codey was both a mentor and a friend.
“He truly cared about the people he served,” Sherrill said. “I will always carry with me his deep belief that the future of our state is worth fighting for.”
Senate Republican Leader Anthony Bucco also praised Codey’s bipartisan impact.
“He leaves behind a lasting legacy of service and integrity that will be felt for generations,” Bucco said.
Codey is survived by his wife, Mary Jo, their sons, Kevin and Christopher, and grandchildren.
