John Whitman, 71, husband of former New Jersey governor

MORRISTOWN, N.J. - John R. Whitman, 71, husband of former Republican Gov. Christie Whitman and the state's first-ever first gentleman, died Thursday.

He died at Morristown Medical Center after suffering a catastrophic brain injury in mid-June, said Heather Grizzle, a spokeswoman for the former governor.

Mr. Whitman was an investment banker who served as a managing partner at Sycamore Ventures in Princeton. His wife was governor from 1994 to 2001.

"He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather, and we are heartbroken to lose his presence in our lives," Christie Whitman said in a statement. "I am so grateful for the thoughts and prayers of so many who have showered our family with their love over these past two weeks."

Mr. Whitman was an Army veteran, and a graduate of Yale University and Harvard Business School. He was born in Albany, N.Y., into a prominent political family. His grandfather was New York Gov. Charles Whitman, who served from 1915 to 1918.

He and Christine Todd bonded over their mutual affinity for politics, sports, and competition. They married in 1974, living briefly in London before moving to Pontrefact, the Todd family farm in Oldwick, Hunterdon County.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Whitman is survived by a daughter, Kate; a son, Taylor; and six grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements were incomplete.