I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi.
Growing up, I remember watching Joanne present my father with his Certificates of Election when he served on the Township Committee in Union. Years later, I had the privilege of standing before her myself as she presented me with those same certificates after I was elected to the Springfield Township Committee.
It was one of those full circle moments that I will always remember.
Joanne’s legacy of public service is truly remarkable. She served on the Springfield Board of Education and the Springfield Township Committee, became Springfield’s first female Mayor, and later made history again as the first woman to serve as Chair of the Union County Board of Commissioners.
Since 1995, she faithfully served as Union County Clerk, where she became a respected leader and a tireless advocate for improving and modernizing our election process.
There is so much more that could be said about Joanne’s extraordinary career and the countless lives she touched through her decades of public service. Her dedication, leadership, and commitment to our communities have left a lasting mark that will not be forgotten.
My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew, loved, and served alongside her.
May she rest in peace, and may God be with her family during this most difficult time.
