LEXINGTON, Ky. — Gov. Andy Beshear and other Kentuckians responded with sadness and respect Saturday morning to news that Kentucky’s first and only woman governor, Martha Layne Collins, has died.

“Gov. Collins was a powerhouse, transforming our commonwealth through major accomplishments like bringing Toyota to our state for its first U.S. site,” Beshear said in a statement.

“She created a foundation for us to build a strong future upon, and her legacy will continue to benefit Kentucky families for generations. She was a proud Kentuckian, and she will be greatly missed. 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.”

Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., offered his condolences, saying 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,” McConnell said in a statement. “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.”

U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky., also remembered Collins “for her visionary leadership in attracting Toyota’s initial investment in and selection of Georgetown, Kentucky as home to their largest manufacturing facility in the world.”

“Our Commonwealth will continue to benefit from that groundbreaking investment in the years to come,” he said in a post on the social media platform X. “I join all Kentuckians today in remembering her consequential service to and love for our Commonwealth.”

Kentucky Democratic Party Chair Colmon Elridge said Collins “spent her life pursuing a Democratic vision where families in every county can access good schools and good-paying jobs — a vision that is closer to becoming a reality because of her dedication to the people of Kentucky.”

Former Gov. Steve Beshear said he and his wife, Jane Beshear, were saddened by the news 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,” Beshear said in a statement. “With Toyota, the Horse Park, and ongoing education reform, Kentuckians continue to benefit from her leadership.”

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce said it was celebrating and remembering “the lasting contributions of Kentucky’s 56th governor.

“Gov. Collins was a trailblazer for women in leadership and a champion for economic growth in the Commonwealth,” chamber officials said in a statement. “We were honored to recognize her as the Chamber’s inaugural Woman in Leadership Award recipient. Our thoughts are with her family and all who were impacted by her leadership.”

Collins was also remembered for her work on education reforms including Kindergarten as a requirement for children in Kentucky, raises for teachers and increased funding for schools, among other changes.

“Governor Martha Layne Collins was a visionary leader whose steadfast commitment to education transformed opportunities for generations of Kentuckians,” Brigitte Blom, president and CEO of the Prichard Committee, said in a statement. “Her courage, grace and determination continue to inspire all of us who believe in the power of education to move our Commonwealth forward.”

Georgetown College, where Collins served as executive scholar in residence from 1998 until 2012, issued a statement saying she had left an “unmistakable legacy” on Kentucky.

“She was such a powerful presence on campus, lending strength and credibility to this College,” Georgetown President Rosemary Allen said in a statement. “When I moved into the College’s administration in 2004, she provided a model of strong, principled, and nuanced leadership. She was extraordinary in so many ways. To this day, when asked who has inspired me as a woman in leadership, my answer is Martha Layne Collins.”

Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton said 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.”

State Auditor Allison Ball wrote: “Asa and I are praying for the family of Gov. Martha Layne Collins. She was KY’s first (and only) female governor. Despite coming from different parties, she was always very gracious and encouraging to me as a woman in politics. I will never forget that. RIP.” Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman said, “As a dad of two daughters, I applaud Governor Collins’ service to Kentucky and busting through the glass ceiling to show that there are no limitations in our Commonwealth. I send our condolences to Dr. Collins, their children and the entire family.”

Amy McGrath said she and many others will miss Collins.

“Her legacy reminds us what’s possible when women lead with courage and purpose,” McGrath wrote in a statement posted on social media. “She inspired me as a young girl and inspired me again years later when she signed the papers for me to run for Congress. She was a giant. A true public servant whose example continues to open doors for others. Her passing is a deep loss, but I’m grateful to have known her and to carry forward the example she set. Thank you, Governor Collins, for leading the way.”

Former state Rep. Cherlynn Stevenson said the state had “lost a trailblazer.”

“Governor Martha Layne Collins dedicated her life to public service and to the people of our Commonwealth,” Stevenson said in a statement.

As Kentucky’s first and only woman to serve as governor, she led with grace, determination, and an unwavering belief in the potential of our state and its people. Her leadership helped pave the way for so many women — myself included — to serve and lead in public life.”

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