Linda Collins-Smith.Photo: Linda Collins Smith/Twitter
The family of former Arkansas state senator Linda Collins is breaking their silence after she wasfound dead in her homelast week.
“Let us honor her memory, of all the wonderful things she said and did for so many people, regardless of political views or otherwise,” they added. “She was always there to listen and to try to help where she could. She would always go above and beyond for people in need.”
The Randolph County Sheriff’s Department and Arkansas State Police have been investigating her death as suspicious and a possible murder.
“We want to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and prayers during this very difficult time,” the family continued. “We ask for your understanding in being unable to speak about the ongoing investigation involving Linda Collins.”
“We are confident that the Randolph County Sheriff’s Department and the Arkansas State Police are using all resources available to find a resolution to this investigation and put our hearts and minds at ease,” they added.
Collins’funeral serviceis expected to take place this weekend, according to her family. In lieu of flowers, they are requesting that donations be made toSt. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Collins switched from the Democratic party to the Republican party in 2011 during her first term in the Arkansas House.
RELATED VIDEO: Ark. Governor Says ‘Religious Freedom’ Bill Needs Changes
She served in the Arkansas House of Representatives from 2010 to 2012 and represented Randolph and Sharp counties (District 80), according to herwebsite.
She also served as a former member of the Arkansas State Senate, where she represented District 19 after being first elected in 2014. In the primary on May 22, 2018, Collins was defeated.
In addition to her roles in the Senate and House, the politician also served on several committees, including Revenue and Taxation; City, County, and Local; and Energy, and was the Arkansas House Chair for the American Legislative Exchange Council.
According to herTwitter bio, Collins identified as a “Christian Conservative; Pro-Life, Business, Family, Guns, Veterans, Better Education & Patriot.”
Just two days after her passing, another former Republican state senator,Jonathan Nichols, was found dead in his Norman, Oklahoma home from an apparent gunshot.
Jonathan Nichols.
source: people.com
