Teaneck mayor died after respiratory issues, official says

Lizette Parker was just 44 years old when she died at Holy Name Medical Center Sunday

Lizette Parker (Teaneck Township)

TEANECK - Lizette Parker, whose death has sent shockwaves through Bergen County, succumbed to a battle with respiratory issues.

Parker, who was just 44, had been admitted to Holy Name Medical Center with the condition Sunday morning prior to her death, according to Township Manager William Broughton.

"Mayor Parker was a strong leader, public advocate and a consummate professional, who was greatly respected by her colleagues and the community," he said in a statement. "Her love, presences and sincerity will be sorely missed in Township government and in the community."

Lizette Parker, groundbreaking mayor of Teaneck, dies at 44

Deputy Mayor Elie Y. Katz has been named Parker's replacement effective immediately, and township officials have ordered all flag to be placed at half-staff in Parker's honor.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.

In 2014, Parker became the first African-American woman to be elected mayor in any Bergen County community, according to The Record. She had served on the Township Council since 2006 and worked at the county Board of Social Service since 1992.

She had battled cancer prior to her most recent hospitalization, according to Bergen County spokesman Michael Pagan.