Hampton, one of the men instrumental in building up the international company.

The 68-year-old had served on the board since 1985 and served in the post of lead director.

Chairman and chief executive officer L. Dennis Kozlowski, issued the following statement on behalf of Tyco: "It is with profound regret that we note the passing of Mr. Philip M. Hampton, a longtime and highly valued member of Tyco's doard of directors.

"Phil Hampton was instrumental in helping build Tyco during its formative years, serving on our board since 1985. He filled the role of lead director in every sense of the term. All of us in senior management benefited from his business judgment, his wisdom and his vision. We will miss him.'' Mr. Hampton was co-managing director of R.H. Arnold & Co. and former chairman of Metzler Corp.

He is survived by his wife, Elaina, and two sons Mark L. Hampton and John Andrew Hampton.