Richard James Codey was an American politician and funeral director who served as the 53rd Governor of New Jersey from 2004 to 2006, initially as acting governor following the resignation of James E. McGreevey in November 2004. A Democrat from Essex County, he began his legislative career in 1973 when he was elected to the New Jersey General Assembly at age 27, representing communities in Essex and Morris counties. He transitioned to the New Jersey Senate in 1982, where he served until his retirement in 2024, representing the 27th Legislative District, which encompassed western Essex County and southeastern Morris County. Codey rose to prominence as Senate President from 2002 to 2010. During his gubernatorial tenure, he focused on mental health advocacy, drawing from personal experiences, and appointed Bob Menendez to the U.S. Senate to replace Jon Corzine. Known for his gregarious personality and colorful presence in New Jersey's politics, Codey spent over five decades in Trenton, becoming the longest-serving lawmaker in state history. Before entering politics, Codey worked as a licensed funeral director, taking over the family business from his father, Donald Codey, who also served as county coroner. At age 14, young Richard assisted with death scene pickups, including from train wrecks, which shaped his early life in Roseland, New Jersey. Codey was a staple in the state's rough-and-tumble political scene, often remembered for his advocacy on issues like mental health reform after his wife experienced postpartum depression. He retired from the Senate in 2024 after a career marked by steady influence in Democratic politics. Codey passed away at age 79, leaving a legacy as an 'accidental' governor and enduring figure in New Jersey governance.