Last week, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement on the passing of Congressman Donald Payne Jr. (NJ-10):
“It is with deepest sympathy that I extend healing to the beloved family of Congressman Donald Payne Jr. — to his wife Bea and their triplets Yvonne, Jack, and Donald. I also extend my thoughts to their cherished friends, his caring staff, and his constituents. Donald was valiant, patriotic, and an honorable colleague.
“He was a measured, compassionate, indefatigable, insightful man, and very hard-working Member of the US House. He bore his chronic health challenges with such dignity and resolve. He never stopped serving in his duty to his constituents.
“I was privileged to serve with his father as well, who travelled to Africa more than any other Member of Congress ever had. There too he leaned in hard to meet with struggling people, often resting in sleeping bags on rough terrain, with the goal of stemming frequent violence to create a better future for the people of that continent.
“His son Donald followed suit in his daily work, serving the people of Newark and across New Jersey’s 10th District, speaking out forcefully on concerns of urban America, the people and places needing to be uplifted so every life has full dignity. Just these past two months, he gave voice to improving housing across America, uplifting Congress’ commitment to American families, recognizing the longest serving President of St. Peter’s University in Jersey City, and honoring a local Eagle Scout.
“Donald’s strength of purpose inspires us to carry forward no matter how heavy the burden. Surely, his strong, kind soul will rest among the righteous who love their neighbor, ‘do what is right, love mercy, and walk humbly with the Lord.’ May he rest in peace, and be reunited with his loving father and mother, Donald and Hazel.”