ORLANDO, Fla. – Geraldine Thompson, a respected Florida lawmaker who served Orange County for nearly 20 years, passed away on Thursday at the age of 76. She died due to complications from knee replacement surgery, according to a statement from her family.
Thompson’s family described her as more than just a leader. “She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her love, wisdom, and compassion shaped many lives in the community and across the state,” the statement read.
State Representative LaVon Bracy Davis, a close family friend, expressed deep sorrow over Thompson’s passing. She shared that their bond went beyond politics, as their families had been connected for decades. “Senator Thompson wasn’t just a colleague; she was family,” Bracy Davis wrote on Facebook, recalling how Thompson was a bridesmaid at her parents’ wedding.
Thompson’s career began as a teacher in Orange County Public Schools, and she later worked at Valencia College. She entered politics in 2006 when she won her first election to the Florida House. Over the next two decades, she alternated between serving in the Florida House and Senate, always advocating for West Orange County.
During her time in office, Thompson fought for public education, voting rights, and public health. In 2022, after a tourist died at an amusement park on International Drive, she worked to pass a law improving ride safety standards.
Thompson was also a strong advocate for Black history education. In 2023, she helped pass a bill requiring Black history to be taught in schools. She served on Florida’s African American history task force and criticized Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration for removing the Advanced Placement African American History course from schools. Additionally, she chaired the task force for Florida’s upcoming Black History museum.
Before entering politics, Thompson was known for preserving history. She fought to save the Wells’ Built Hotel, which was originally built in 1921 for Black travelers who couldn’t stay in white-owned hotels. She later turned it into the Wells’ Built Museum of African American History and Culture.
In 2023, Thompson won reelection to represent Florida Senate District 15.
Lawmakers from both parties expressed their sadness over her passing. Senate President Ben Albritton called her “a force to be reckoned with” and praised her deep knowledge, passion for education, and engaging debates.
Thompson’s family plans to share details about her funeral in the coming days.
