Stuart Ewing, 76, was overcome by smoke after a chip pan fire at the family home in Miltonduff, near Elgin, on Monday afternoon.

He was taken to Doctor Gray's Hospital in Elgin, where he later died.

Mrs Ewing was not at home at the time.

Mrs Ewing was married to Stewart for 47 years

Mr Ewing, an SNP activist, was an adviser to his wife, who represents Highlands and Islands, and encouraged her to stand in the Hamilton by-election in 1967, when she became the party's first Member of Parliament.

The couple had been married for 47 years and have three children.

Mrs Ewing was in a "state of shock", according to her son Fergus Ewing, MSP for Inverness East, Nairn and Lochaber.

Paying tribute to Mr Ewing, Scotland's First Minister Jack McConnell said: "The thoughts of all of us in Scottish politics go out to Winnie and all her family at this tragic time."

SNP leader John Swinney said the party's thoughts were with Mrs Ewing, their children Fergus, Annabelle and Terry, and daughter-in-law Margaret.

He said: "They have lost a husband and father and Scotland has lost a staunch patriot.

'Wise counsel'

"Stewart made an outstanding public and private contribution to the cause of Scottish independence and his unique counsel will be missed."

SNP Westminster leader Alex Salmond added: "Stewart Ewing was a fine man and a tremendous support to Winnie over a long period in public life.

"He will be sorely missed by the many people in the SNP who had great affection for the man and great respect for his wise counsel."

Annabelle Ewing is MP for Perth and Margaret Ewing is MSP for Moray. Terry Ewing has not entered politics.