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U.S. and New Jersey flags will fly at half-staff today in honor of the late State Senator James Wallwork. The veteran lawmaker, who served as an assemblyman for 12 years and a state senator from 1968 until 1982, passed away on October 23rd at the age of 94. The Short Hills Republican also held positions as Senate Minority Whip and Assistant Minority Leader during his tenure.
Born in 1930, Wallwork had a distinguished career in public service. Before his legislative career, he served as 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, Wallwork 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.
Acting Governor Tahesha Way signed Executive Order No. 371, ordering the flags to be flown at half-staff. "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."
Wallwork is survived by his daughter Lyric Winik; his two grandsons, Nathaniel and Evan; his two nephews, Matt and Mark Sheeleigh; and their respective families. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Lark.