Following the tragic news earlier this week of U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr.’s untimely passing at 65, tributes and remembrances continue to pour in, from both sides of the aisle and beyond.

“Congressman Payne, Jr. experienced a physical accident at home on April 6, 2024, which necessitated hospitalization,” Payne’s office said in an April 24 statement. “During his treatment for this health issue, he faced medical complications due to diabetes and high blood pressure that led to subsequent cardiorespiratory arrest. Despite the dedicated efforts of the medical staff to treat him and improve his health, they were unable to prevent his passing unfortunately. Congressman Payne, Jr.’s passing comes 12 years after his father, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Sr., died in office on March 6, 2012.”

The well-liked and well-respected six-term Democratic congressman represented the 6th District. The Newark native has been mourned by leaders, officials and community stakeholders as well as by residents and constituents he served over his long career in public service.

“Like his father before him, Donald was a trailblazing figure in our civic institutions, dedicating his career to the soul-feeding work of serving others,” said U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., and former Newark mayor. “Over the almost three decades I knew Donald, he was a dear friend and a powerful colleague in Newark and in Washington. He was never about adulation or applause; the cause of his life was fighting for dignity, security, and opportunity for all.”

“The Payne family has a legacy of public service and Donald Payne, Jr. continued that tradition as an elected official representing our community as a councilman, freeholder, and congressman,” said Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo. “He was a passionate leader and advocate who adored Newark and Essex County and cared deeply about our residents. I am saddened by his passing. My deepest condolences and prayers go out to his family.”

U.S. Rep Bill Pascrell Jr., D-9th District, said he was anguished and devastated by the passing of his close friend. He described it as a terrible loss for his family and everyone who admired the late congressman.

“Like his father, Donald gave his entire life to the people of Newark,” said Pascrell. “I cannot think of any member at any time who embodied the compassion, kindness, honesty, big heart, and humble demeanor central to public service more than Donald. He led the way for rail transportation and men’s health in the Capitol and was a beloved member of our state’s congressional delegation – always thinking about everybody else but himself.”

‘A true public servant’

“Deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Donald Payne, Jr., a good friend, highly effective public servant and compassionate leader,” said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y. “My prayers and support are with the Payne family and his loved ones during this difficult time. May he forever Rest in Peace.”

“We are saddened to be informed of the passing of Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr., who had been serving New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District since 2012 – and who succeeded his father in the same position,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La. “Our prayers are offered today for his family and friends – and especially his wife, Bea, and their three children.”

“Rhonda and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.,” said Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-7th District. “Our condolences go out to his family, friends, and the people he represented in this difficult time.”

“Congressman Payne was a true public servant who fought hard for what he believed in and for his constituents,” said state Senate Republican Leader Anthony Bucco, R-25th District. “I admired his tenacity to stay vigilant for the causes he held close to his heart, and I am grateful for his many years of service. My thoughts and prayers are extended to his family during this difficult time.”

Beyond borders

Senate President Nick Scutari, D-22nd District, said that New Jersey lost one of its most distinguished public leaders – lauding Payne’s public service work and dedication as well as his friendship.

“Donald Payne, Jr. was an exceptional man whose life of service had a meaningful and lasting impact on people far beyond the borders of the 10th Congressional District or even the people of New Jersey,” said Scutari. “Whether it was standing up for our shared Democratic principles such as access to healthcare, promoting a fair tax system, or delivering aid to our communities, Congressman Payne, like his father, courageously fought on behalf of those most in need and for those who seldom feel they have a voice. On a personal level, he may have been from another county and served at a different level of government, but along with his father, Donald was a true friend.”

Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz, D-29th District, described Payne as a not just a colleague but a cherished friend and brother. She said his departure leaves behind an impactful and enduring legacy.

“Despite the daunting task of following in his father’s footsteps, Donald didn’t merely fill his father’s shoes; he carved out a path uniquely his own,” said Ruiz. “His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. As a true son of Newark, Donald embodied the very essence of public service – championing causes that resonated deeply with our constituents.”

Despite the daunting task of following in his father’s footsteps, Donald didn’t merely fill his father’s shoes; he carved out a path uniquely his own.
– Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz, D-29^th District

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr., a fellow Newark native, a leader in Essex County, and a brother,” said Assemblywomen Eliana Pintor Marin and Shanique Speight, D-29th District, in a joint statement, describing his trajectory as marked by a commitment to progress. “As a six-term Congressman, Donald Payne, Jr. was highly effective, consistently advocating for his constituents and championing causes that mattered most to them. His passion for social justice defined his tenure in office. May his memory be a blessing, and may we honor his legacy by continuing his work in the pursuit of a better future for all New Jerseyans.”

Campus condolences

“We are saddened by and join in mourning the loss of a public servant who championed the people whose stories beautifully unfold on our campus and in our community and call our university theirs,” said New Jersey City University interim President Andres Acebo. “May we all set our eyes high and emulate his zealous advocacy and service.”

“The Kean University community mourns the loss of Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr., a statesman who leaves an impressive legacy of advocating for New Jersey’s urban communities and small businesses,” said Kean University President Lamont Repollet. “A former Kean student, the congressman was a true friend to the university and offered personal support and encouragement to me whenever our paths crossed. Congressman Payne always had an open door for his constituents. His dedicated work on behalf of New Jersey and its people will be missed. On behalf of Kean University, I send my condolences to his family and all who hold Congressman Payne in their hearts.”