Patricia de Lille's husband dies from long illness 'Our marriage was built from respect,' says public works minister Public works minister Patricia de Lille is mourning the death of her husband, Edwin, who died on Sunday evening. File photo. Image: Sunday Times Public works minister Patricia de Lille is mourning the death of her husband, Edwin, who succumbed to a long illness on Sunday evening. His death was confirmed by the family on Monday. The pair were married for 49 years. Paying tribute to her husband, De Lille described him as a loving father who supported her throughout her political career, giving her the freedom to fully pursue her work in serving the country.