Newark Mourns Death Of Former City Councilman: Donald Bradley

NEWARK, NJ — The Newark community is mourning the death of a beloved former city council president: Donald Bradley.

Bradley passed away last Thursday. He was 91. Read his obituary and see funeral service information here.

Bradley served for 17 years on the Newark City Council, representing the South Ward from 1989 to 2006. He championed youth centers, senior housing and drug treatment programs, and spent many years as a community advocate.

Bradley’s service in local government was remembered by several local officials from the area.

Essex County Commissioner A’Dorian Murray-Thomas said Newark is mourning the loss of a “true civic giant.” She wrote:

“A veteran public servant, educator, and community advocate, Bradley championed youth centers, senior housing, and drug treatment programs. He was a substance abuse counselor, a teacher, and founder of ‘The Bradley Bunch’ civic association. His leadership was shaped by faith, activism, and a deep love for Newark—from organizing sit-ins with the NAACP in college to mentoring generations of local leaders. May his legacy of service, strength, and South Ward pride live on in the hearts of all who knew him.”

Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. remembered the late civil leader with fondness, offering condolences to his family.

“He filled his life with public service to the City of Newark as a councilman, ran his own civic association and worked as an educator,” DiVincenzo wrote, praising his “passion to provide students with the best opportunities to succeed.”

U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver (NJ-10) also issued a statement about Bradley’s passing.

“Donald Bradley was a pillar to the South Ward, a mentor to many, and served with conviction,” wrote McIver, who previously served as a city council president in Newark.

“He fought hard to push Newark forward and made it even stronger for generations to follow,” the congresswoman continued. “His legacy will forever be woven into the very fabric of this city, and we are forever grateful for his unwavering commitment to the people of Newark.”

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