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Governor Murphy Directs the Lowering of U.S. and New Jersey Flags in Honor of Judge Lisa Payne Thornton

06/6/2023

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today signed Executive Order No. 331, ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff on Friday, June 9, 2023 in honor of the Honorable Lisa Payne Thornton. Judge Thornton was appointed as a Superior Court judge by Governor Jon Corzine in 2008 and, most recently, served as the Monmouth County Assignment Judge. She passed away on May 26, 2023 at the age of 59 after a decorated career in public service.

“For more than two decades, the State of New Jersey and its local communities benefited tremendously from Judge Thornton’s dedicated public service and legal acumen,” said Governor Murphy. “As the first Black woman to serve as an Assignment Judge in New Jersey history, she will be remembered not only as a talented judge but as an inspiring trailblazer in her field. It is with great sadness that we mourn Judge Thornton's passing and extend our heartfelt sympathy to her family, friends, and colleagues.”

For a copy of Executive Order No. 331, click here.