Essex County Officials Honor Life of Raymond Durkin

Essex County officials honored the late Raymond Durkin, former chairman of the New Jersey and Essex County Democratic Parties and Maplewood resident, during a plaque-dedication ceremony on Wednesday.

According to a release, the plaque was placed on the promenade in the Essex County Government Complex to raise awareness about Durkin’s contributions to the community.

“We affectionately described Ray as being a member of the Old Guard because he was a seasoned veteran of Democratic politics,” stated Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.

“Ray was a superior strategist, leader and mentor to generations of many young Democrats who he tutored, including me. [He was] known for having a great sense of humor, but he possessed a keen understanding of government and politics, had tremendous ability to build bridges and find consensus, and reacted to all situations with calm reasoning.”

“My father had the ability to make everyone feel special,” stated Essex County Clerk Christopher Durkin. “He had the ability to make you feel safe and make you laugh. I’m inspired by all the people who have come today.”

“My father loved politics, history and sports, but he especially loved the feeling he got by helping other people. Most of all, he loved my mother, Joan,” he added.

“I am so grateful that Ray saw something special in me and gave me a chance in public service,” stated Essex County Democratic Committee Chairman Leroy Jones. “He was my counselor, mentor and advisor.”

“It’s amazing that an individual could have the stature and respect throughout the state,” Assemblyman Thomas Giblin said, referencing Durkin’s service as Essex County Democratic Committee Chairman and New Jersey State Democratic Party Chairman.

“We all know what kind of man Ray was. He could get along with anyone and, for many of us, he was our friend and mentor,” former Governor and NJ State Senator Richard Codey stated.

Photo courtesy of Anthony Puglisi

Photo caption: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., right, dedicates a bronze plaque honoring the life and legacy of the late Raymond M. Durkin on Wednesday, April 22. With DiVincenzo are Durkin’s wife, Joan Codey Durkin, left, members of his family and friends.