TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — In a heartfelt ceremony at Florida’s capitol, lawmakers from both Republican and Democratic parties united in mourning and remembrance as they paid tribute to the life and contributions of Democratic state Sen. Geraldine Thompson. This influential figure, known for her longstanding dedication to public service, civil rights, and education, passed away on February 13 due to complications following knee-replacement surgery at the age of 76.
Family members of Thompson, including her husband, occupied her desk in the Senate chamber, adorned meaningfully with a bouquet of white roses and a black cloth as members of the legislature shared prayers, songs, and memories in her honor. Thompson had a significant impact, championing voting rights and the preservation of Black history. Her political journey in Florida began as a staffer for Gwen Cherry, the first Black woman in the state legislature, and evolved into over 15 years as a representative for central Florida in both the House and Senate.
Throughout her career, she tenaciously opposed measures she considered unconstitutional, like the gerrymandering of voting districts, while defending the inclusion of Black history in education. This stance was particularly crucial amidst efforts by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to restrict certain historical narratives in classrooms. At the memorial, Democratic state Sen. Darryl Rouson spoke on Thompson’s profound influence, likening her to a valuable repository of knowledge that had been lost.
In a poignant letter of condolence read by Democratic state Sen. Tracie Davis, former President Barack Obama hailed Thompson as an exemplary public servant, acknowledging the widespread impact of her trailblazing work. Democratic state Sen. Rosalind Osgood recalled witnessing Thompson’s inspiring presence in the capitol back in 2000, well before her election, reinforcing the essential presence of Black women in the political sphere.
As a cherished member of the Legislative Black Caucus, Thompson’s legacy as the conscience of the Florida Senate endures. Known for her captivating speeches, she was held in high regard by her peers, commanding rapt attention whenever she addressed the assembly. Republican state Sen. Ed Hooper emphasized the rarity of such attentive listening, highlighting Thompson’s unique influence.
Beyond her legislative accomplishments, Thompson’s career journey included roles as a public school teacher, community college administrator, and historian. She founded the Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture in Orlando, additionally leading efforts to establish a state museum dedicated to African American history.
Her dynamic portrayals of historical Black figures captivated her audience on the Senate floor. Republican state Sen. Don Gaetz recalled a memorable moment when he left a meeting to see Thompson evoke the life of pioneering Black aviator Bessie Coleman. Her storytelling was so vivid, Gaetz remarked, that he truly believed in her transformative power.
