The state of Illinois is preparing to bid farewell to its former governor, George Ryan, who passed away last Friday at age 91. According to Chicago Sun-Times , funeral services are set for this week in Kankakee, with visitation scheduled for Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schreffler Funeral Home. Ryan, a Republican, was not just the state's 39th governor but held multiple other key roles throughout his political career, including Illinois secretary of state and Illinois House speaker.

The late governor's tenure was noted for a significant shift in Illinois' criminal justice system, marked by his moratorium on the death penalty, which paved the way for its ultimate abolition in the state. However, Ryan's legacy is also marred by his indictment on fraud and racketeering charges that led to him serving six years in prison. As reported by Fox 32 Chicago , his obituary describes him as a "loving and attentive husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather."

In addition to the visitation, a memorial service is set to be held on Thursday at noon at the Asbury United Methodist Church. This will be an opportunity for the public and former constituents to pay respects to the governor who left behind a complex legacy.