* NBC Chicago…

Ryan, who served as Illinois’ governor from 1999 to 2003, passed away Friday morning after spending the last few days in hospice care, according to former Illinois House Republican Leader Jim Durkin, a close friend of Ryan’s.

No cause of death was immediately given. […]

During a 2015 talk, Ryan said serving time on corruption charges gave him a new perspective on the criminal justice system.

“Justice is supposed to be blind, but the fact is most people are blind about the justice system,” Ryan said. “Those of us who have been there and are coming out of prison wondering what is going on. There are people concerned about what is going to happen to us, but I am not sure they care that much.”

People have and will say many bad things about him, but he got a lot of stuff done in four years.

…Adding… More coverage…

* Tribune: Former Gov. George Ryan, who halted state’s death penalty but was imprisoned for corruption, dies at 91

* Sun-Times: Former Illinois Gov. George Ryan dead at 91

* CBS2: Former Illinois Governor George Ryan dies at age 91, sources confirm; served prison time for corruption

* ABC7: Former IL Gov. George Ryan dead

* Fox32: Former Illinois Gov. George Ryan dies at 91

…Adding… Brad Cole…

Below is a statement from Brad Cole, CEO of the Illinois Municipal League, regarding former Gov. George Ryan. Cole served as Ryan’s Deputy Chief of Staff:

“Governor Ryan was a very good friend of mine. He was also fundamentally a good man, and I wish more people knew that about him. He dedicated himself to helping people when others wouldn’t and did so quietly and out of the spotlight. I will always be grateful for our more than 25-year relationship and am comforted that he and Lura Lynn are now together once again.”

* Curran…

Illinois Senate Republican Leader John Curran (R-Downers Grove) released the following statement on the passing of former Illinois Governor George Ryan:

“I join the many Illinoisans who are remembering the contributions that Gov. Ryan made to our state. He was a bold leader who wasn’t afraid to reach across the aisle and bring people together for the greater good. His investments in infrastructure, technology, and education to help create a brighter future for Illinois will long be remembered. I am thinking of his family and those who loved him, and wishing them strength and peace as they say goodbye.”