TRENTON – Senator John McKeon (D-Essex/Passaic) released the following statement on the passing of former Governor Dick Codey:

"Governor Richard J. Codey was a legend.

"Just yesterday, I was meeting with a constituent who shared a touching story about how Governor Codey mentored his son and the profound impact he had on his life. It spoke volumes about the kind of man Governor Codey was. This was just one of the thousands of lives which he touched.

"His integrity, compassion and unwavering commitment to public service left a lasting mark on our state and on everyone he served, especially myself. I first met Governor Codey when I was in middle school. From that moment, he took me under his wing, and I later had the privilege of working alongside him in his early days as an Assemblyman. Observing firsthand his empathy, humility and advocacy for those who could not speak for themselves have had a profound and enduring influence on my professional life.

"I had the honor of serving alongside him in the Legislature for nearly 30 years, a partnership and friendship I will always cherish. He was a remarkable man.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Mary Jo, Kevin, Chris and his grandchildren for whom he had a deep love. Governor Codey’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the enduring example of leadership."