State Assemblyman Alex DeCroce, 75, died suddenly Monday night after a long deliberative session at the Statehouse.

The Parsippany resident, who represented the 26th legislative district in Trenton since 1989, collapsed and died in a first-floor bathroom in the Statehouse just before 11:30 p.m., right after the legislature completed its final voting session.

He is survived by his wife, Betty DeCroce, Deputy Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.

Assemblyman Jon Bramnick of Westfield released the following statement on the loss of DeCroce: "I am deeply saddened by the shocking and painful loss of Leader DeCroce. Alex became a close personal friend over the years, and I spent many hours by his side. He was a model statesman who led our caucus with grace and integrity. Alex was a mentor to many of us, and his wisdom and kindness made this state a better place. Our thoughts and prayers are with Betty Lou and the entire DeCroce family. We have lost one of our most dedicated public servants."