Jim Edgar, whose steady, principled leadership as Illinois’ 38th governor left a lasting legacy of integrity, bipartisanship, and public service, died Sunday morning from complications of pancreatic cancer. He was 79.
At the heart of his life was his family. Jim was married to Brenda Edgar for 58 years, a partnership grounded in love, mutual respect, and shared commitment to service. Together, they raised two children and supported each other through decades of public and private life. Brenda was his greatest source of strength and his closest confidante.
Jim Edgar believed public office was a call to serve. He didn’t seek popularity, instead he earned it by standing for what was right, even when it was hard. Known for his honesty and thoughtful leadership, he brought people together across political lines and worked to make government work better for everyone. He listened carefully, made tough decisions, and led by example.
Born on July 22, 1946, in Vinita, Oklahoma, Jim grew up in Charleston, Illinois, the youngest of three sons. He graduated from Charleston High School and Eastern Illinois University, where he served as student body president. He began his career in public service as a legislative intern in the Illinois Senate, was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives, and went on to serve 10 years as Illinois Secretary of State before being elected governor in 1990. Four years later, he was re-elected for a second term where he carried 101 of Illinois’ 102 counties in a historic landslide victory.
As governor, he prioritized fiscal responsibility, educational access, child welfare reform, and environmental conservation. He restored the state’s financial stability during a national recession, championed increased funding for underserved school districts, and helped make higher education more affordable. Alongside Brenda, he led efforts to modernize the state’s adoption system and support families. His administration was one of the most diverse in Illinois history.
After leaving office in 1998, he founded the Edgar Fellows Program at the University of Illinois to mentor the next generation of public leaders. More than 500 Fellows have participated in the program, which remains one of his most meaningful accomplishments. It reflects his belief that respectful dialogue and shared purpose can transcend political divides and build a better future.
While his career in public life was significant, Jim was most proud of the life he built with his family. He was a devoted father to Brad (Stacey) and Elizabeth, and a loving grandfather to James “Dakota” (Shannon) Edgar, Cali (Mark) Ward, Ellie (Cole) Gregory, Jake Edgar Lowe, and Cecilia Edgar Lowe, who knew him affectionately as “Papa” and “GFS” (Grandfather Sir).
Jim was also a man of many interests. He loved to travel, was an avid reader, a lifelong learner, and an owner and breeder of thoroughbred race horses. He loved his dogs, collected art and history, and treasured friendships that spanned decades.
He is remembered as a leader who cared, not just about results, but about people. He leaves behind a legacy of decency. His family is grateful for his example of how to lead with integrity, how to listen to all sides, and how to care for others with grace and courage.
He is survived by his wife Brenda; their children and grandchildren; and nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Betty Edgar, and his brothers, Tom and Fred.
Funeral arrangements are pending. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Edgar Fellows Program or the charity of your choice
