Legendary local leader and history-making public servant of distinction former Newark City Council President Mildred C. Crump has died.
She was 86.
Councilwoman from 1994-1998, and again from 2006-2021, Mildred Crump was the first Black woman to serve on the city’s governing body, defeating Donald Tucker in a 1994 runoff election. She would serve on the council during the times of Mayors Sharpe James, Cory Booker, and Ras Baraka. A graduate of Rutgers-Newark with a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, the Honorable Ms. Crump was New Jersey’s first African-American Braille teacher. In 2020, the New Jersey State League of Municipalities inducted Ms. Crump into its Hall of Fame.
Her son, Larry Crump, serves as an at-large councilman in Newark. He posted the following on Facebook this morning: “After 31 years, my mother has reunited with the love of her life…She loved doing what she did. Being a public servant for the people.”
He also shared this visual of his mother with an official statement from the Crump Family:
And her daughter, Sage Crump, posted this:
“A redwood has fallen in the forest.
“Early this morning my mother Mildred Joyce Coleman Crump, first of so many things, became a most treasured ancestor. She understood her assignment and lived a life of purpose, rigorous, community , faith and love. A testament to how she showed up is that EVERY SINGLE PERSON, my brother Larry Crump and I have talked to this morning said “What can I do?” To say she will be missed is like saying water is wet and fatback makes greens delicious (Ask me about our Thanksgiving cooking squabbles). As in life, I know she will take her duty as a ancestor seriously and she likes to be busy so feel free to call on her. We are grateful to have shared her with so many and that will not change now.”
A former chief-of-staff to his mother, Larry Crump in 2022 told InsiderNJ that he learned the tough local political trade going back to when his mother first won her council seat in 1994. “We do the best we can to help, and I’ve helped people who have called me every name but the son of God,” CLarry rump said with a laugh. “Some people yelling do need the help, and no matter what side of the election you’re on, you help. I learned that from my mother. Many times the same people who yelled at her and cursed her out, came up to office and asked for money or assistance.”
Pictured above: Honored by the Democratic State Committee with The Trailblazer Award, Newark Council President Mildred C. Crump (center) celebrated with, from left: T. Missy Balmir, Sherryl Gordon Hall, Truscha Quatrone, and Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-15).
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Honorable Mildred C. Crump, a beloved figure in the city of Newark, has passed away at the age of 78. Crump was a trailblazer in the political arena, becoming the first African American woman to serve on the Newark City Council in 1994. She was a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of her constituents and advocate for social justice.
Crump’s impact on the city of Newark was profound. She was known for her unwavering commitment to fighting for equality and justice for all residents, particularly those in marginalized communities. Throughout her tenure on the City Council, Crump championed numerous initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for Newark residents.
In addition to her work on the City Council, Crump was also a prominent community leader and activist. She was involved in various organizations and initiatives that sought to address issues such as poverty, homelessness, and violence in Newark. Her dedication to serving others and making a positive impact on her community was truly inspiring.
Crump’s passing is a great loss for the city of Newark and all who knew her. She will be remembered for her passion, integrity, and tireless advocacy on behalf of those in need. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the positive changes she helped bring about in Newark.
As news of Crump’s passing spreads, tributes and condolences have been pouring in from across the city and beyond. Mayor Ras Baraka described her as a “true champion for the people of Newark” and praised her for her dedication to public service. Other elected officials, community leaders, and residents have also expressed their sorrow at the loss of such a remarkable individual.
Honorable Mildred C. Crump leaves behind a legacy of service and compassion that will continue to inspire others for years to come. Her impact on the city of Newark and its residents will not be forgotten, and her memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace.
