Former state Senator Robert Littell has died, according to a report in the New Jersey Herald.
He was 78.
A Republican, Mr. Littell was the father of Assemblywoman Alison Littell McHose (R-24), and served in the state senate from 1992 to 2008 and was succeeded by state Senator Steve Oroho (R-24).
His full obituary can be found here.
Many of his colleagues who served with him in Trenton expressed sadness on news of his death.
U.S. Rep. Leonard Lance (R-7) said, “Heidi and I, and my twin brother Jim, extend our deepest sympathy to the entire Littell Family on the passing of Senator Robert Littell. Ginny, Alison and Luke are in our prayers. The Littell Family and the Lance Family have known each other for at least 75 years. No more distinguished family has served New Jersey over the last century than the Littells. The State has lost one of the true legislative giants of the second half of the 20th century.”
“No one I have served with has left a more lasting mark on New Jersey’s public affairs than legislative giant Bob Littell,” said veteran state Senator Joe Kyrillos (R-13). “He was a teacher and mentor to me and many others. Susan and I offer our condolences to his great family, Ginnie, Alison and Luke.”
U.S. Rep. Scott Garrett (R-5) issued a statement.
“Bob Littell was a true gentleman—I will always remember the kindness he showed me and my family when I succeeded him in the Assembly—and one of the most formidable legislators our state has ever known,” the congressman said. “I join everyone in Sussex County in mourning the loss of such a great public servant. His legacy of compassion and hard work on behalf of Sussex County will long be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with Bob’s family during this difficult time.”
Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick (R-21) said he was saddened to learn of the death of the Republican leader, who served in the Assembly from 1967 to 1992.
“The senator’s 40 years of service in the Legislature is testimony to his dedication to the people of New Jersey,” Bramnick said. “Senator Littell was a great public servant and will be sorely missed. Alison’s public service is a tribute to her father’s legacy. On behalf of the Assembly Republican caucus, I offer my heartfelt condolences to Alison and her family.”
The senator’s widow is Virginia Littell, who chaired the New Jersey Republican Party from 1992 to 1995.
The Littell family will receive their friends at the F. John Ramsey Funeral Home, One Main Street, Franklin, NJ on Monday, November 17, 2014 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM. Burial will be private. Memorial gifts to Ginnie’s House,P.O. Box 3156, Newton, NJ 07860 would be appreciated. Information and condolences can be found at www.fjohnramseyfuneralhome.com
