Trailblazing Legacy: Remembering Kentucky's First Female Governor, Martha Layne Collins, Who Passed Away at 88

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FRANKFORT, Ky. — A significant figure in Kentucky’s history and the state’s 56th governor has passed away, as Gov. Andy Beshear revealed on November 1st. Her contributions to the state remain indelible in the minds of many.

“Governor Collins was a formidable force,” Beshear remarked, emphasizing her pivotal role in bringing Toyota to Kentucky for its inaugural U.S. location. “She laid the groundwork for a prosperous future for our state, and her legacy will continue to uplift Kentucky families for many generations. A proud Kentuckian, she will be dearly missed.”

Originating from the small community of Bagdad in Shelby County, Collins wore many hats throughout her life, serving as a teacher, county clerk, businesswoman, and the secretary of Kentucky’s Democratic Party. Her political journey saw her elected as lieutenant governor alongside John Y. Brown Jr. in 1979, before defeating Jim Bunning in 1983 to become governor. Her pioneering spirit earned her the title of “true pioneer” from USA Today.

The Kentucky community recently paid their respects to former Gov. John Y. Brown Jr., marking a period of reflection on the state’s leadership legacy.

Kentucky Governor Martha Layne Collins, center, shakes the hand of Toyota Motor Corporation President Dr. Shoichiro Toyoda after the company officially announced that it would build it’s first American plant in Georgetown, Ky., Dec. 11, 1985. At left is Chairman of the Board, Eiji Toyoda. The announcement was made on Wednesday morning in Lexington. (AP Photo/Gary Landers)

Former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and the Kentucky GOP both acknowledged Collins’ role in breaking through barriers, highlighting her significant impact on social media. Her achievements continue to resonate across the state, inspiring future generations.

Former Gov. Steve Beshear, who served as Collins’s lieutenant governor during her time as head of the Commonwealth, told FOX 56 News that he and his wife Jane were saddened to hear of her passing.

“I had the privilege of serving as lieutenant governor when she broke the glass ceiling to become Kentucky’s first female governor, and I saw firsthand her transformational efforts related to economic development, education and equine tourism,” he said. “With Toyota, the Horse Park, and ongoing education reform, Kentuckians continue to benefit from her leadership. Our thoughts go out to Bill and their children.”

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Kentucky Republican Attorney General Russell Coleman said that as the father of two daughters, he applauded her “service to Kentucky and busting through the glass ceiling to show that there are no limitations in our Commonwealth.”

Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton called Collins a champion of education on social media, asking for prayers for her husband, Dr. Bill Collins, and their family.

Funeral arrangements for Collins have yet to be announced.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.