State mourns passing of former First Lady Lucinda Florio

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Sad news Wednesday, as former New Jersey First Lady Lucinda Florio died at the age of 75.

Her passing comes less than two months after the death of her husband, former Gov. Jim Florio, in September.

Lucinda Florio was a former public-school teacher and lifelong education advocate. In a statement, Gov. Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy said they were deeply saddened to learn of the former first lady’s passing.

“As First Lady, she broke from convention by choosing to be an active partner in governing, creating the Office of the First Lady, and earning praise in one news report for her ‘enthusiasm, curiosity, and quiet tenacity,’” the Murphys wrote. “As an educator, she used her platform to focus on children’s literacy and health and was a steadfast champion for women’s rights and remained an advocate for numerous organizations and causes for the rest of her life.”

“It was also under her watchful eye that Drumthwacket evolved from being a stately mansion to a home that truly welcomed all New Jerseyans,” the Murphys added.

The Murphys say that they have a lost friend and that the state has lost an exemplary leader.

In recognition and remembrance of Lucinda Florio, the governor ordered all flags in the state to fly at half-staff Nov. 17.

“Lucinda Florio served as an active and visible First Lady who used her role to advocate for women and children,” Murphy wrote in a statement announcing Executive Order No. 312. “It is with heavy hearts that we mourn her passing as we recognize the outstanding achievements and cherished memory of Lucinda Florio.”