Frankfort, Kentucky, November 8, 2025
Former Kentucky Governor Martha Layne Collins, the first woman to serve in the role, will lie in state at the Old State Capitol on November 9. Collins, who passed away at the age of 88, was remembered for her significant contributions, including the establishment of a Toyota assembly plant in Kentucky. Governor Andy Beshear has ordered flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff until her interment on November 10. A memorial service will follow the visitation, streamed live for those unable to attend.
Frankfort, Kentucky – Former Kentucky Governor Martha Layne Collins, who was the first and only woman to hold the office, will lie in state at the Old State Capitol in Frankfort on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from noon to 4 p.m. EST. The public is invited to visit during this time, followed by a memorial service at 4:30 p.m., which will be broadcast live on Kentucky Educational Television (KET) and available online at ket.org/live.
Collins passed away on November 1, 2025, at the age of 88. She served as Kentucky’s 56th governor from 1983 to 1987 and previously held the role of lieutenant governor from 1979 to 1983. One of her significant achievements during her tenure was the establishment of an $800 million Toyota auto assembly plant in Kentucky, a milestone in the state’s economic development.
In recognition of Collins’ passing, Governor Andy Beshear has ordered that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff until sunset on the day of her interment, set for Monday, November 10, 2025.
The Old State Capitol, located at 300 West Broadway Street in Frankfort, is a National Historic Landmark notable for its Greek Revival architecture and served as Kentucky’s seat of government from 1829 to 1910. Collins’ death has triggered tributes from political figures, including Governor Beshear, who acknowledged her significant influence on the state.
For those unable to attend the memorial service in person, KET will provide live coverage and online streaming of the event.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the details of the public visitation and memorial service for former Governor Martha Layne Collins?
The public visitation will be held at the Old State Capitol in Frankfort on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from noon to 4 p.m. EST. A memorial service will follow at 4:30 p.m., which will be broadcast live on Kentucky Educational Television (KET) and available online at ket.org/live.
When did former Governor Martha Layne Collins pass away?
Former Governor Martha Layne Collins passed away on November 1, 2025, at the age of 88.
What is the Old State Capitol, and why is it significant?
The Old State Capitol, located at 300 West Broadway Street in Frankfort, is a National Historic Landmark known for its exceptional Greek Revival architecture. It served as Kentucky’s seat of government from 1829 to 1910.
How can I watch the memorial service if I cannot attend in person?
The memorial service will be broadcast live on Kentucky Educational Television (KET) and available online at ket.org/live for those unable to attend in person.
What honors have been given to former Governor Martha Layne Collins following her passing?
In honor of her passing, Governor Andy Beshear has ordered flags at all state office buildings to be lowered to half-staff until sunset on the day of her interment, which is scheduled for Monday, November 10, 2025.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Public visitation and memorial service for former Governor Martha Layne Collins |
| Date and Time | Sunday, November 9, 2025; Visitation: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. EST; Memorial Service: 4:30 p.m. EST |
| Location | Old State Capitol, 300 West Broadway Street, Frankfort, Kentucky |
| Broadcast | Live on Kentucky Educational Television (KET) and online at ket.org/live |
| Flags at State Buildings | Lowered to half-staff until sunset on the day of interment, Monday, November 10, 2025 |
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