Russell Findlay remembers 'respected' Tory MSP dead at 75
He went on to join Argyll and Bute Council in 2017, serving as a councillor for Oban South and the Isle until 2022.
Born in London in 1949, Sir Jamie was educated at Cladich Primary School in Argyll and at Eton College.
After graduating from the University of Neuchatel in Switzerland, Sir Jamie worked in finance in London before starting a trout farm in Argyll.
During his time in Holyrood, he served as Scottish Conservatives spokesperson on fisheries, communities, and sport.
Former MSP Sir Jamie McGuire. (Image: Gordon Terris) Scottish Conservative Party leader Russell Findlay told the BBC: "I am deeply saddened to hear of Sir Jamie's death, and on behalf of all Scottish Tories, I would like to send my condolences to his family and friends.
"After being elected to the reconstituted Scottish Parliament in 1999, he stood firm for the interests of the Highlands and Islands for 17 years as a committed MSP.
"He did an excellent job in several frontbench positions, including fisheries, he was very popular and was respected by his colleagues regardless of their politics."
Sir Jamie was remembered by former Conservative colleagues on social media.
Aberdeenshire West and North Kincardine MP Andrew Bowie wrote:
'Very sad to hear of the death of Jamie McGrigor, a lifelong servant to Scotland and the Scottish Tories.
'One of the class of 1999, an MSP through to 2017, and then councillor for Oban until 2022, he was one of the best. Respected on all sides. He will be greatly missed.'
Former Scottish Conservative boss Douglas Ross added: 'Very sorry to hear of the passing of Jamie McGrigor. Jamie was a kind and dedicated MSP who served the Highlands and Islands with real passion and commitment.
'My thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.'
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Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser noted: 'Very sorry to hear of the passing of my friend and former colleague & Highlands & Islands MSP Jamie McGrigor.
'A passionate voice for his Highland constituents, he was outstanding company and a tremendous character. Jamie, you - and your guitar - will be greatly missed.'
MSP Liz Smith added on Facebook:
'So very sorry to learn of the death of Jamie McGrigor - one of the Scottish Parliament's great characters, passionate ambassador for the Highlands and kind and gracious colleague.'
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