Longtime Newark Crossing Guard, Mother of 2 Passes Away

NEWARK, NJ — A familiar face will be missing from the corner of Oliver Street and McCarter Highway in Newark: Erika Whitfield.

Administrators at Oliver Street School in Newark announced Whitfield’s passing via social media on Wednesday.

According to school administrators, Whitfield, a Newark native who was raised in East Orange, has been the crossing guard on the corner of Oliver Street and McCarter Highway since 2009. After gaining employment, she then moved to Newark as a single parent raising a daughter and son.

Both of Whitfield’s children attended South Street School and her son is currently attending Oliver Street School, administrators wrote.

“She was an amazing person who made sure that the children and staff, as well as residents, made it to their destinations safely,” administrators stated. “She was loved by all who she came in contact with and was a true asset to the city of Newark, the Ironbound Community, and the students of Oliver Street School. Mrs. Erika Whitfield will be deeply missed.”

A viewing is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday at Clarence B. Wright Funeral Home, located on 579 Grove Street in Irvington. A funeral will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday at NIA Masjid & Community Center, 231 Roseville Avenue in Newark.

Photo: Oliver Street School, Facebook

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