Senator Geraldine Thompson is survived by her loving husband, Judge Emerson Thompson Jr., and their family, who will continue to honor her legacy of public service, dedication to justice, and commitment to the community.
She was an American politician and a member of the Florida Legislature and represented portions of Orlando and western Orange County in both the Florida State Senate and the Florida House of Representatives.
Highlights
- Geraldine Thompson was a politician who served the state in the Florida House between 2006 and 2012.
- She was married to Emerson R. Thompson JR, a Chief Judge of Florida’s Fifth District Court of Appeal.
- The couple had three children: Laurise Thomas, Emerson III Thompson, and Elizabeth Grace.
A loyal Democrat, Thompson concentrated on causes of education, civil rights, and neighborhood development in her time in office.
She initially served the state in the Florida House between 2006 and 2012, followed by service in the State Senate between 2012 and 2016, and went back to the House from 2018 to 2022.
Apart from politics, Thompson was also a historical reservation and social justice campaigner, representing districts with major attractions like Walt Disney World.
Geraldine Thompson and Emerson Thompson: A Power Couple Dedicated to Justice and Service
Two of Florida’s power couples were Geraldine Fortenberry Thompson and Emerson R. Thompson JR., a pair dedicated to justice, public service, and community building.
Both were committed to a marriage built on respect for one another, and they made their mark on Florida’s legal and political landscape.
We mourn the passing of a true giant, Senator Geraldine Thompson—a fearless leader, dedicated public servant, and relentless advocate for justice. She dedicated her life to uplifting our communities, preserving Black history, and ensuring that every Floridian had a voice. pic.twitter.com/o1v4XfpeWe
— Monique H. Worrell (@MoniqueHWorrell) February 14, 2025
Moreover, she was a pioneering politician who struggled to get medication and civil rights and her husband broke the barriers of being the first Black judge within the Ninth Judicial Circuit.
The two assisted one another in rising to the levels of their professions, serving as pillars of guidance and inspiration within the community.
Additionally, the politician’s partner had a distinguished law career as an appellate, circuit, and county judge.
He was Chief Judge of Florida’s Fifth District Court of Appeal and was highly known for his integrity and dedication to justice.
Off the bench, Mr. Thompson advised young lawyers, taught law, and volunteered with such organizations as Rotary International and the Florida Bar.
The Late Senator, Geraldine Thompson Had Three Children
Geraldine Fortenberry Thompson’s children have grown up to have great professional careers in their areas of interest, outlining an excellent commitment to leadership and service.
Her daughter, Laurise Thomas is a strategic director and executive project manager with tremendous experience in corporate event planning, logistics, and business operations.
She is expertly experienced with major projects and contributes efficiency and success to big events.
Furthermore, Mrs. Thomas’s expertise in coordinating teams, strategic planning, and executing complex initiatives has made her prominent in the corporate sector.
Elizabeth Grace, the youngest daughter of the family, is the president and CEO of the Central Florida Urban League.
She focuses on economic empowerment, community development, and social justice initiatives.
Also, Grace works to create programs that provide job training, financial literacy, and educational opportunities for underserved communities.
She shared a heartfelt message on Facebook saying:
Last week, I was able to vote for my mother. I was super excited not just because she’s my mom but because I could cast a vote for someone who I know will work for what’s right and what’s best. I know first hand Geraldine Thompson will fight for healthcare, education, gun safety and a better environment!
Additionally, the senator’s son, Emerson III Thompson, lives and works in Tallahassee. He is married, has two children, and prefers to maintain a private life.
Additional Information
- Geraldine Thompson’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million as of 2025.
- She passed away on Thursday, 13th February 2025, following complications from knee replacement surgery.
- Thompson was blessed with six grandchildren, and she was also a great-grandmother.
