Acting Governor Way today signed Executive Order No. 371, ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, in recognition and mourning of a dedicated legislator and public servant, Senator Jim Wallwork.

Senator Wallwork passed away on October 23, 2024, at the age of 94. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Lark, and is survived by his daughter Lyric Winik; his two grandsons, Nathaniel and Evan; his two nephews, Matt and Mark Sheeleigh; and their respective families.

Before serving in the New Jersey Legislature, Senator Wallwork was a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army and spent over a decade in the New Jersey National Guard, retiring as a major. He entered public office in 1963, serving in the General Assembly from 1964 to 1966 before joining the State Senate. During his tenure, he served as Senate Minority Whip and Assistant Minority Leader, championed environmental protections like the Pinelands Preservation Act, and authored legislation establishing New Jersey’s first Advanced Life Support ambulances. Later, Governor Christine Todd Whitman appointed him as New Jersey’s Commissioner on the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor.

“Senator Wallwork was a dedicated public servant who served with integrity,” said Acting Governor Way. “We offer our deepest condolences to his loved ones and we thank him for his years of dedicated service.”