The Bluegrass State mourns the loss of a remarkable figure in its history. Kentucky’s 56th governor, a groundbreaking woman who left an indelible mark on the Commonwealth, passed away on November 1. Her passing was announced by Governor Andy Beshear, who paid tribute to her transformative impact.
“Governor Collins was a force of nature,” said Beshear. “She revolutionized Kentucky with significant achievements, such as bringing Toyota to establish its first U.S. site here. Her work laid a robust foundation, ensuring a prosperous future for Kentucky families. Her pride in being a Kentuckian shone brightly, and she will be deeply missed.”
Hailing from the small community of Bagdad in Shelby County, Collins’s career was marked by a series of pioneering roles. Before making history as governor, she served as a teacher, county clerk, businesswoman, and Secretary of Kentucky’s Democratic Party. Her political journey saw her elected as lieutenant governor in 1979 alongside Governor John Y. Brown Jr., and she made history again in 1983 by defeating Jim Bunning to become governor. USA Today fittingly described her as a “true pioneer.”
The legacy of Governor Collins was also highlighted by former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who recognized her as a barrier-breaker. The Kentucky GOP echoed this sentiment on social media, emphasizing her role in expanding opportunities for future generations.
“As one of the first women in American history to be elected governor in her own right, her leadership opened new possibilities,” the Senate GOP leaders noted.
Former Governor Steve Beshear, who served as Collins’s lieutenant governor, expressed his and his wife Jane’s sorrow upon hearing the news. Speaking to FOX 56 News, he reflected on her impactful leadership and the void her passing leaves behind.
“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.
