**Kentucky’s First Female Governor Martha Layne Collins Passes Away at 88**
Kentucky’s first female governor, Martha Layne Collins, has 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.
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### What to Know
Governor Andy Beshear announced Collins’ passing Saturday morning in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter). In his tribute, Beshear highlighted Collins’ lasting legacy and counted her among his friends.
One of Collins’ greatest accomplishments, according to Beshear, was her success in bringing the first Toyota factory to the U.S. and establishing it in Kentucky – a move that laid the groundwork for the state’s thriving automotive industry.
“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.”
No cause of death has been disclosed at this time.
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### Who Was Martha Layne Collins?
Martha Layne Collins, a Democrat, was elected in 1982 as Kentucky’s 56th governor, serving one term until 1987. To date, she remains the only woman to have held the office.
Born in 1936, Collins attended the University of Kentucky and initially worked in the public school system before entering politics in 1971. She participated in several gubernatorial and congressional campaigns and served as lieutenant governor. She also made history as the state’s first clerk in the Kentucky Supreme Court prior to her gubernatorial run.
During the 1984 presidential campaign, former Vice President Walter Mondale interviewed Collins as a potential running mate. However, he ultimately chose Representative Geraldine Ferraro of New York.
As governor, Collins focused heavily on increasing funding for Kentucky’s public schools. She is also credited with securing the Toyota manufacturing plant in Georgetown, a move that helped transform Kentucky into a major hub for car manufacturing.
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### What People Are Saying
Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released a statement honoring Collins:
“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 shared her tribute 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.”
Ashli Watts, President of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, also paid respects on X:
“Rest in peace to Governor Martha Layne Collins — Kentucky’s only female governor. I was honored to know her and every time 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.”
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Martha Layne Collins leaves behind a powerful legacy as a pioneer for women in politics and a visionary leader who helped shape the future of Kentucky’s economy and education system. She will be remembered fondly by many across the Commonwealth.
https://www.newsweek.com/kentuckys-first-female-governor-passes-away-remarkable-woman-10976557