Over those 25 years, Sandra became much more than someone I knew through politics. She became my friend, my mentor and someone I loved dearly. She watched me grow. She encouraged me when I needed it, gave me advice when I asked for it, and sometimes gave it to me when I didn’t ask. That was Sandra, and I loved her for it.

We had a real friendship. We laughed. We disagreed. We talked about life, family, Jersey City, politics and everything in between. There were things I could talk to Sandra about because I knew she would give it to me straight and it would stay between us. I trusted her.

She was there before I became a Hudson County Commissioner. She was there as I found my own way in public service. And she was there to see me become an Assemblyman representing the same 31st Legislative District she represented for so many years.

I wish I could have one more conversation with her.

Sandra, I will continue your commitment to making Liberty State Park a destination where all families can come, enjoy it and prosper for generations. I know how much you cared about its future, and I know how much you wanted the families of our community to be part of that future. I will carry that work forward.

Today, the titles don’t mean much to me.

I lost Sandra.

I lost someone who knew me for 25 years. Someone who believed in me before I ever had a title in front of my name. Someone who could make me laugh, straighten me out, encourage me and remind me why the work mattered.

I am going to miss hearing your voice. I am going to miss our talks. I am going to miss knowing you were there.

Thank you for 25 years, Sandra.

I love you, my friend.

Rest peacefully.

Jerry