Jim Edgar, one of Illinois’ most respected and enduring political figures, passed away Sunday at the age of 79. He died after being hospitalized due to a reaction to treatment for cancer. Edgar had publicly announced his diagnosis of metastatic pancreatic cancer in January.

Known for his steady leadership, bipartisan appeal, and deep commitment to public service, Edgar leaves behind a legacy that shaped the state’s political and civic landscape for more than half a century.

Born July 22, 1946, in Vinita, Oklahoma, Edgar was raised in Charleston, Illinois, by his mother after his father’s untimely death in a car accident. A born-again Christian, Edgar’s early life was marked by resilience and a strong sense of purpose. He graduated from Eastern Illinois University, where he met his wife, Brenda. The couple raised two children together.

Edgar’s political journey began in 1968 as a legislative intern under Illinois Senate President Pro Tempore W. Russell Arrington, whom Edgar later credited as his most influential mentor. After an unsuccessful bid for the Illinois House in 1974, Edgar won a seat in 1976 and was reelected in 1978.

In 1981, Edgar was appointed Illinois Secretary of State following Alan Dixon’s election to the U.S. Senate. He won full terms in 1982 and 1986, earning praise for his efforts to combat drunk driving and his push for mandatory auto insurance.

Edgar ascended to the governorship in 1990, succeeding Jim Thompson. Sworn in as Illinois’ 38th governor on January 14, 1991, Edgar inherited a nearly $1 billion budget deficit amid a national recession. His first year saw a tense budget standoff with lawmakers, culminating in $80 million in cuts and the continuation of a temporary income tax surcharge.

Despite early fiscal challenges, Edgar’s administration was marked by pragmatic reform. He led the state through the devastating Great Flood of 1993, advocated for early childhood education and prenatal care, and championed school reform—calling improvements in Chicago’s public schools his proudest achievement.

Edgar’s tenure included high-profile clashes with Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley over Meigs Field, casino gambling, and a proposed domed stadium for the Bears. Though tensions flared, Edgar maintained a reputation for integrity and moderation.

In 1997, Edgar testified in a bribery trial involving state contractors. While convictions followed for those involved, Edgar himself was never accused of wrongdoing.

After recovering from quadruple bypass surgery in 1994, Edgar won reelection and served until 1999, choosing not to seek further office. He remained active in civic and political discourse, often offering candid commentary on national affairs. In 2024, Edgar made headlines for his criticism of President Trump and his support for Kamala Harris through the “Republicans for Harris” initiative.

In February 2025, Edgar publicly shared his battle with metastatic pancreatic cancer. Undeterred, he continued to engage with the public and was honored in June with the dedication of the Jim Edgar Reading Room at the Illinois State Library in Springfield.

“There is perhaps no more fitting tribute to him than the Illinois State Library reading room,” said Governor JB Pritzker at the ceremony. “A place that holds within it shelves and pages upon pages that extol the virtue that Jim Edgar has exemplified and fought for throughout his life — civic engagement, public good, intellectual freedom.”

Jim Edgar’s life was a testament to principled leadership, quiet strength, and enduring service. Illinois mourns the loss of a governor, mentor, and public servant whose impact will be felt for generations.