Sheila Oliver, the Lt. Governor of New Jersey, died at the age of 71 due to an unidentified medical condition.

Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver of New Jersey, who was serving as acting governor while Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy was out of the state, died at the age of 71.

Oliver, the first Black woman to serve as speaker of the Louisiana Assembly, died Tuesday after being hospitalized for an undisclosed medical issue on Monday.

She was brought to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston and was unable to perform her duties as acting governor.

 According to the state constitution, Democratic Senate President Nicholas Scutari was serving as acting governor.

"It is with tremendous sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of the Honorable Sheila Y. Oliver, Lieutenant Governor of the State of New Jersey,"

Oliver's family said in a statement on Tuesday. She was not only a brilliant public servant, but also our beloved daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and hero.

As we come to terms with this deep loss, we respectfully request that you respect the Oliver family's privacy during this difficult time as they grieve their beloved Sheila.

Sheila Y. Oliver leaves a legacy of dedication, service, and inspiration. We will remember her dedication to the people of New Jersey and her persistent efforts to improve the community.

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