Former Penns Grove Mayor John Washington died on January 14. He was 80.
Washington spent sixteen years as mayor of the small Salem County town until he lost re-election by 132 votes to independent LaDaena Thomas in 2019. He was served as a councilman from 1986 to 2004.
A Democrat, Washington sought a comeback last November but finished third with 26% of the vote behind Thomas, who was re-elected as a write-in candidate, and Republican Louis Pasquale.
“Penns Grove has lost a dedicated public servant and a pillar of our community. Mayor Washington has left a lasting impact on our small borough, and his friendliness, music, and determination will be deeply missed,” Thomas said in a statement. “ He served with passion. His commitment and compassion to win is a standard for future leaders to follow. He made me earn every vote and made me a better mayor in the process. I’m glad that we were able to have meaningful conversations in the last few months.”
Funeral services are set for 5 PM Sunday at Penns Grove High School.