This morning, we laid to rest our friend and colleague, Assemblyman Alex DeCroce. I was privileged to attend his funeral mass and hear the beautiful eulogies given by his longtime pastor, Rev. Tony MacNaughton, Alex’s son PJ Johannesen, his friend and fellow crime victims rights advocate Richard Pompelio, Alex’s neighbor and good friend Justin Carifi, and the Honorable Governor Chris Christie.

Reverend MacNaughton spoke of Alex’s lifelong commitment to public service, and his devotion to his family. His son PJ spoke with love and admiration for all of the lessons he learned from his father. Rich Pompelio recounted Alex’s steadfast determination to supporting crime victims and securing their rights, while young Justin spoke with emotional honesty about the simple joys of friendship that he and Alex shared.  Governor Christie summed it all up when he referred to Alex DeCroce as “the poster boy for a life well lived.”

I am grateful to have known and worked with Alex DeCroce during my time in the Assembly. He was a colleague, a mentor and a friend, and he will be greatly missed.