Former Union And Essex Assemblywoman, First Female Millburn Mayor Dies At 93

MILLBURN, NJ —Gov. Phil Murphy ordered that U.S. and New Jersey flags fly at half-staff at state buildings on Friday to remember former Assemblywoman and Millburn Mayor Maureen Ogden, who passed away Wednesday at 93.

Odgen, a Republican, served seven terms in the New Jersey Assembly from 1982 to 1996, representing parts of Essex and Union counties.

She represented the 21st District until 1990, then represented the 22nd District after redistricting.

She was the first female mayor of Millburn from 1979 to 1981.

“Mayor Ogden was a tireless and passionate public servant for Millburn Township residents," said current Millburn Mayor Maggee Miggins. “She was a pioneering advocate for environmental causes and wetlands preservation."

"Assemblywoman Ogden, who dedicated her life to public service as a seven-term assemblywoman in the New Jersey Legislature and the first woman to serve as Mayor of Millburn, was a passionate supporter of the arts and steadfast champion of the environment," said Murphy on Thursday. "As we honor her legacy as a leader and trailblazer, we commemorate her many achievements in state politics and conservationism. Tammy and I send our sincere condolences to her family and loved ones."

According to the town of Millburn, as a legislator, Odgen chaired the Assembly Committee on Conservation, Energy and Natural Resources as well as the Assembly Arts, Tourism and Cultural Arts Committee and the Assembly Environment Committee.

"During her tenure she authored major legislation to protect watersheds and wetlands," said the township. "In 1994, Ogden created a $350 million fund for the purposes of preserving open space, farmland, and historic preservation."

"She represented the best of the best," said State Sen. Jon Bramnick this week.

According to a biography, Ogden was born in 1928 attended the private all-girls' Kent Place School in Summit. She received a Bachelor's degree from Smith College in 1950 and a Master's from Columbia in Public Law and Government in 1963.

Ogden’s husband, Bob, passed away in 2010. She is survived by her three sons, including former Summit Councilperson Henry Ogden, and her grandchildren.

"The Township of Millburn offers its sincere condolences to her family and loved ones," the town wrote in a statement.

Copy of Executive Order #303