PATERSON, N.J. — Congressman Bill Pascrell, who represented the Paterson area in Congress for nearly three decades, passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 87. Pascrell, a Democrat, was widely known for his fierce advocacy for his hometown and the surrounding communities, along with his commitment to public service that spanned over four decades.
Pascrell’s legacy is recalled as one of unwavering dedication to the people of New Jersey, particularly those in Bergen County. County Executive Jim Tedesco expressed his sorrow at the news, saying, “My heart is heavy after hearing about the passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell. A lifelong public servant, Congressman Pascrell was a champion, an ally, and a friend to all.”
Pascrell began his career as a public school teacher at Paramus High School, where he spent 12 years shaping young minds. His dedication to education and public service later led him to Congress, where he became a staunch advocate for first responders, securing critical federal funding for police officers, EMS personnel, and firefighters throughout Bergen County.
Throughout his congressional career, Pascrell remained deeply connected to his roots in Paterson, always wearing his hometown pride on his sleeve. His leadership and commitment to his constituents made him a beloved figure not just in Paterson, but across New Jersey.
Gov. Phil Murphy also reflected on Pascrell’s impact, noting, “Bill was a unifier in every sense of the word. He sought to bring the people of New Jersey together around our shared principles.” Murphy highlighted Pascrell’s efforts in Congress to defend access to reproductive health care, support law enforcement, and protect the natural wonders of New Jersey, including Paterson’s Great Falls.
State Sen. Holly Schepisi (R-River Vale) posted on her Facebook page, “RIP Congressman Pascrell. I’ve known the Congressman personally for many years and although we had vastly different political views, I’ve always enjoyed his company and admired his passion for those he represented. Sending prayers to his entire family.”
And Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D5) said:
It’s hard to believe, but today, Jersey lost an absolute giant, a courageous fighter, and an unparalleled champion of hardworking families and first responders — my dear friend and mentor, and Paterson’s favorite son, Bill Pascrell. My heart goes out to Bill’s wife Elsie and his three children, Bill, David, and Glenn. May Bill’s memory be a blessing, and his remarkable legacy of service comfort them during this trying time.
Bill was the consummate public servant. A veteran, an educator, a legislator, and a proud Italian American, Bill never forgot where he came from, for even a moment. He was feisty but fair, quick with a quip and a jab, and incredibly loyal. Bill lived life to the fullest until the end — and we all loved him for it. He was Jersey through and through — and a ton of fun to be around.
When I first ran for Congress, Bill took me under his wing and showed me the ropes. Freshman year in Congress is difficult, but he always had my back through the highs and the lows. Perched in the back row of the House floor, or at a podium, Bill was never afraid to tell me, or anyone, when he agreed — and, from time to time, disagreed. Bill loved his Way and Means Committee, where he championed SALT and served Jersey with distinction, but not as much as the constituents he represented, or his family and friends he always talked about.
My first event as a member of Congress was actually at a firehouse in Teaneck, New Jersey standing next to Bill, who immediately recruited me into the Congressional Law Enforcement Caucus and the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, which he proudly chaired. He loved being at a firehouse and standing with cops, firefighters, and EMTs.
Bill was a true champion for our first responders and public safety. In 2000, he penned the landmark FIRE Act, which established the AFG grant program. A few years later, he helped establish SAFER grants. Those vital programs helped fire departments across the country claw back vital investment for training, protective gear, equipment, and other life-saving resources. Because of his heroic work for our firefighters, Paterson’s fire headquarters proudly bears his name.
We also worked closely to safeguard our houses of worship and communities from an epidemic of hate and bigotry. Just this year, amid the rising tide of antisemitism, Bill led the fight for more funding for the vital Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Bill worked around the clock and across the aisle to secure that funding. I cannot tell you how much our religious institutions appreciate that investment.
Thank you, Bill, for all that you did for our state and our country. We will miss you. You will never be forgotten, and it’s fair to say that Jersey will never be the same without you.
Pascrell’s passing indeed leaves a significant void in New Jersey politics. He had been running for re-election to his 9th District seat, with the election now set to proceed without him. Under state election law, Democratic county committee members will select a new nominee to replace him on the ballot.
Born on Jan. 25, 1937, in Paterson, Pascrell was the grandson of Italian immigrants. He served in the U.S. Army and later in the U.S. Army Reserve before pursuing higher education at Fordham University, where he earned degrees in journalism and philosophy.
NBC News observed, “Pascrell’s passing comes as Democrats are gathered for their convention in Chicago where Vice President Kamala Harris will accept her party’s nomination. Those who could pay tribute to Pascrell from the convention stage on Wednesday include Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.”
Pascrell is survived by his wife, Elsie, their three children, Bill, David, and Glenn, and six grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are pending.