Former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar, who led the state from 1991 to 1999, has died. He was 79.

Edgar had been undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer after he was diagnosed earlier this year.

“It is with heavy hearts we share the news that our beloved husband, father and grandfather Jim Edgar passed away this morning in Springfield from complications related to treatment for pancreatic cancer. We are deeply grateful for the love, support and kindness so many have shown to Jim and our family over these last several months," a news release from the Edgar family said.

Edgar, a Republican, was elected as Illinois Governor in 1990, and won 101 of the state’s 102 counties in winning reelection four years later.

Governor JB Pritzker released a statement following the news of Edgar’s death,

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