ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) - Former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar died Sunday at the age of 79.

The former republican governor had battled pancreatic cancer. Edgar had served as governor from 1991 until 1999.

Current Gov. JB Pritzker released a statement saying:

“MK and I are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Governor Jim Edgar. Governor Edgar was a model public servant, a devoted father and husband, and an honest and honorable man.

“I was lucky enough to consider him a friend and mentor and have found myself drawing from his words of wisdom on countless occasions. His commitment to reaching across the aisle in service of the people of Illinois undeniably made our state better.

“Now more than ever, we should channel that spirit and resolve to live as Governor Edgar did: with honest

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