Copyright Newsweek
Kentucky’s first female governor Martha Layne Collins passed away at the age of 88, according to a statement by current Governor Andy Beshear. “Kentucky, let’s remember to send up a thank you with our prayers as we remember a remarkable woman who made an undeniable difference in our state,” Beshear wrote, in part. What To Know Beshear broke the news on Saturday morning with a statement posted to X in which the governor not only announced Collins’ passing but also paid tribute to her and her legacy. He counted Collins among his friends, and cited her success in bringing the first Toyota factory to the U.S. and setting it up in Kentucky among her greatest accomplishments. “She created a foundation for us to build a strong future upon, and her legacy will continue to benefit Kentucky families for generations,” Beshear wrote. “She was a proud Kentuckian, and she will be greatly missed,” Beshear said of a “powerhouse” whom he considered “my friend.” No cause of death was given at this time. Who Was Martha Layne Collins? Collins, a Democrat, was elected in 1982 as the 56th governor of Kentucky, serving one term until 1987. She was the first and only woman to date to hold the office. Collins was born in 1936 and attended the University of Kentucky. She worked in the public school system before entering politics in 1971, taking part in several gubernatorial and congressional campaigns, according to the National Governors Association. She served as lieutenant governor and was the state’s first clerk in the Kentucky Supreme Court before she made her bid for the top office in her state. Former Vice President Walter Mondale during his unsuccessful bid for the presidency in 1984 interviewed Collins as a potential running mate, but ultimately chose another woman, Representative Geraldine Ferraro of New York. Collins in her one term as governor focused on increasing the funding for the state’s public schools in addition to her Toyota success, which helped position Kentucky as a major car manufacturing hub, according to local outlet WLWT. What People Are Saying Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, a Republican, wrote in a statement: “As Kentucky’s first female governor, Martha Layne Collins was known for breaking barriers. Governor Collins was a tireless advocate for all levels of education in Kentucky, and that passion carried her throughout her life. She also promoted growth in the Commonwealth by bringing the Toyota Plant to Georgetown stimulating the regional economy. It is with deep sadness that Elaine and I learned about Governor Collins’ passing, and we send our sincere condolences to her husband, Bill, and her two children.” Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton wrote on X: “Kentucky has lost an amazing woman, visionary and leader. Martha Layne Collins, Kentucky’s first and only woman Governor, was a UK graduate, champion for education and the force that brought Toyota to the Bluegrass, positively changing the strength of our economy. Please join me in keeping her husband, Bill, and her entire family in your thoughts.” Kentucky Chamber of Commerce President Ashli Watts wrote on X: “Rest In peace to Governor Martha Layne Collins-Kentucky’s only female goveror. I was honored to know her and everytime I was fortunate to spend time with her I took away important lessons on leadership and paving your own path. She will be missed and always remembered for being a trailblazer and shattering glass ceilings.
