Paul Vallone, Former Queens Council Member, Dies At 56

QUEENS, NY — Prominent former Queens Council Member Paul Vallone died suddenly over the weekend, prompting an outpouring of grief.

Vallone, 56, suffered a fatal heart attack Saturday, the Queens Chronicle first reported.

The scion of a storied Queens political family, Vallone had spent eight years on the City Council and, until his death, served as deputy commission for the city's Department of Veterans' Services.

"Paul Vallone was the epitome of a public servant, a true champion for Northeast Queens and an unrelenting advocate for veterans," tweeted Donovan Richards, borough president for Queens.

"But more than anything, Paul was a loving husband, a proud father and a loyal friend to everyone who — like me — had the honor of knowing him."

Paul Vallone was the epitome of a public servant, a true champion for Northeast Queens and an unrelenting advocate for veterans.

But more than anything, Paul was a loving husband, a proud father and a loyal friend to everyone who — like me — had the honor of knowing him. (1/3) https://t.co/mUZpzNemHb pic.twitter.com/qc1rTf5E2W
— Queens Borough President Donovan Richards (@QnsBPRichards) January 28, 2024

Mayor Eric Adams also highlighted Vallone's public service, which he cast as a true son of Queens who carried on a "family legacy."

"Throughout his time in office, the blue-collar community he represented knew they had a fighter from the neighborhood representing them in City Hall," Adams said in a statement.

"In that role and as a member of our administration, he was a committed advocate for veterans — serving those who have served our country. It was an honor to serve alongside him, and I know New Yorkers will join me in keeping the Vallone family in your hearts today."

Vallone is survived by his wife and three children.