FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — A trailblazing Kentucky woman and the Commonwealth's 56th governor passed away on Nov. 1, according to an announcement from Gov. Beshear.

"Gov. Collins was a powerhouse, transforming our commonwealth through major accomplishments like bringing Toyota to our state for its first U.S. site," Beshear wrote, "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."

Born in the Shelby County community of Bagdad, Collins had been a teacher, county clerk, a businesswoman, and the secretary of Kentucky's Democratic Party before her election as lieutenant governor under John Y. Brown Junior in 1979 and her victory over Jim Bunning t

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