Statement from Essex County Commissioner President Brendan W. Gill on the passing of Steve Adubato, Sr.

October 10, 2020

From Essex County Commissioner President Brendan W. Gill -

The communities of Newark and New Jersey have lost an iconic figure.

I was extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Stephen Adubato, Sr.

Affectionately known as "Big Steve", he spent his life raising awareness on the

importance of education through his work as a teacher, and his leadership on

the Newark Teachers’ Union and the New Jersey Federation of Teachers.

In addition to his advocacy on behalf of teachers and education, he was a

unifying political force in Newark after the riots. His founding of the North Ward

Center in 1970 serves as a standing legacy of his service and commitment to

the Newark community. As the son of a public school teacher, his actions

resonated with me and I consider myself fortunate to have received guidance

and mentorship from him through the personal relationship we formed through

the years.

On behalf of my family, I offer my heartfelt condolences to his wife Fran, his daughters Theresa and Michelle, his son, and my personal friend, Stephen Adubato, Jr., and the entire Adubato family.