Obituary of Francis Xavier Herbert

Herbert, Francis X. , “Frank”, 87, of Randolph formerly of Rockaway, Sparta, and Waldwick, where he and his wife Eleanor raised their family with love and devotion. Frank was born in Jersey City, and was the loving husband of Eleanor.  He was the cherished father to Patrick, Timothy and his wife Ellen, Eileen and Jerry Cawley, and father-in-law to Debra. Wonderful grandfather to Caitlin and Dom Rivera, Frank, Carolyn, Bill, Emma, Aidan and Catherine; GreatGrandfather to Stella’ Beloved Uncle to many nieces and nephews. The oldest of 7 children, Frank is survived by his brother James, of Princeton.

Frank graduated from Fordham University in 1956, after receiving a full 4 year academic scholarship. He earned an MA in Education from Montclair and was an English teacher for 30 years, having served most of that time at Secaucus High School, where he was Chairman of the English Dept. He loved teaching and had an endless passion for learning. He was a fan of the Arts, classical music, Shakespeare and the opera. He loved to sing and often sang at public events, and the National Anthem was one of his favorites. He was an avid sports fan his entire life, The New York Giants were his favorite team, which has carried on as tradition throughout his family.

Frank dedicated much of his life to public service, and ran as a Democrat, beginning his political career as a Waldwick councilman in 1971, when he also served as Waldwick Fire Commissioner. He served as a Bergen County Freeholder from 1974-1977. He was elected to the New Jersey State Senate (39th dist) and served from 1978-1982. He was a progressive leader, and his advocacy of mass transit led him to sponsor landmark legislation creating NJ Transit, which earned him The Governor’s Award for Transportation given to him by Governor Tom Kean. He was a strong supporter and defender of women’s rights, equal rights, education and the environment. Frank is also considered a progressive hero in the 11^th congressional district after ousting a racist and a holocaust denier from the ballot in the primary. He is the only candidate in New Jersey history to win a Federal primary election as a write-in candidate.

Frank loved his family and friends and had a voracious appetite for life which was infectious to all who knew him. His laughter and personality will be missed by many.

A Mass and Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 20, 2018 at 10 am at St. Mary’s Church, 15 Myers Avenue, Denville.  Visiting hours will be held on Friday, October 19^th from 4-8 pm at the Norman Dean Home For Services, 16 Righter Ave., Denville, NJ.