The state of Illinois is preparing to say its final goodbyes to former Governor Jim Edgar, who passed away at the age of 79 after a fight with pancreatic cancer, as reported by ABC7 Chicago. Edgar, a Republican, was at the helm of the state’s politics during the 1990s, serving two terms and leaving a legacy of fiscal stability for Illinois.
Before the funeral service, which is set to be held at Central Baptist Church in Springfield on Saturday, Edgar's body was displayed at the Illinois State Capitol Building, offering an opportunity for the public to pay respects and amid the somber procession, family and friends were present, many reflecting on the former governor's contributions and tenure, based on information from WGN-TV.
The Central Baptist Church, located in the heart of Springfield, will welcome mourners at 11 a.m. for the memorial service – those unable to attend in person have the option to watch the service live as ABC7 Chicago will be streaming the event, allowing Edgar's legacy to be acknowledged by a wider audience.
Jim Edgar's time as governor was marked by his efforts toward financial prudence and he remains notable as the last Republican governor in Illinois to be elected more than once, according to his family's statement, he succumbed to complications from pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis he had shared publicly earlier this year, leaving behind his wife and two children as stated in an announcement covered by WGN-TV.
