The convenor of an SNP Constituency Association has died suddenly while chairing an online Zoom meeting.
John MacMillan, 59, from Ballachulish, who took over as Convenor of Argyll and Bute SNP Constituency Association last autumn, died during the group's Sunday afternoon meeting.
Argyll and Bute MSP Michael Russell said: "All of us who were present at the meeting, and I am sure the wider community as well, are feeling an overwhelming sense of shock and disbelief.
"Obviously all our thoughts are with his widow, Anne, at this time and our hearts go out to her given the tremendous loss she has suffered."
Russell added: "John had spoken on the phone with many of us over the last few days and had just made opening remarks to the meeting, but despite the immediate actions that Anne took and the rapid medical attention from local paramedics in Ballachulish he was not able to be revived.
"John was a lifelong supporter of independence and after a highly successful business career he retired to spend more time on the things that really mattered to him - his life with Anne, his beloved Highlands and the SNP."
Mr MacMillan had been active in a number of branches, including Oban and became Vice Convenor of the constituency some years ago.
Russell said that Mr MacMillan had had discussed ambitious plans and fundraising and other events to take the association up to the 2021 election.
He added: "Working closely with him as the constituency MSP I was always grateful for his attention to details.
"He made sure that the local party organisation was well managed and focused on achieving independence and I only wish he was going to be with us to see that job completed.
"John will be greatly missed by me and by many as a valued colleague and a friend."
