TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Amidst the often divisive political landscape in Florida, both Democrats and Republicans were deeply moved as they came together in the state’s capital to celebrate the exceptional life and contributions of Democratic state Senator Geraldine Thompson. Senator Thompson, a revered figure in the realms of legislation, civil rights, and education, passed away on February 13 at the age of 76 after complications from knee-replacement surgery. Her colleagues gathered at the Florida Capitol on Thursday, where Thompson’s family sat at her desk on the Senate floor, decorated with white roses and a black cloth, as they prayed, sang, and shared heartfelt memories of her.
A dedicated advocate for voting rights and Black history, Thompson’s political journey began as an aide to Gwen Cherry, the first Black woman elected to the Florida Legislature. Over the span of more than 15 years, she served in the House and Senate, representing central Florida. Thompson fearlessly challenged Republican leaders on issues such as voting district gerrymandering and the preservation of Florida’s Black history, particularly at a time when efforts have been made to limit the teaching of certain aspects of the state’s past in schools.
During the memorial service, Democratic state Senator Darryl Rouson described Thompson as the epitome of Black history, emphasizing the significant loss her passing represents. He shared an African proverb about the wisdom lost when an elder dies, likening Thompson to a library of knowledge now gone. Former President Barack Obama, in a letter of condolence read by Democratic state Senator Tracie Davis, hailed Thompson as a paragon of public service and a trailblazer whose impactful legacy will endure through the lives she influenced.
Senator Rosalind Osgood, who first observed Thompson’s legislative prowess in 2000 before her own election to the legislature, highlighted the inspiration Thompson provided as a Black woman in positions of power. Thompson’s colleagues remember her as the moral compass of the Florida Senate and a walking history lesson, commanding attention and respect whenever she addressed the chamber.
Beyond her political career, Thompson’s impact extended to education and cultural preservation. As a teacher, college administrator, and museum founder, she dedicated herself to sharing the stories of Black trailblazers in Florida’s history. Colleagues fondly recall Thompson’s captivating portrayals of historical figures during Senate sessions, such as the depiction of aviator Bessie Coleman, which left a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.
Senator Don Gaetz recounted a moment when he hurried out of a meeting to witness Thompson’s mesmerizing portrayal of Bessie Coleman, underscoring the profound storytelling and educational experiences she brought to the legislative environment. Thompson’s legacy as a transformative figure in Florida’s political and cultural landscape is celebrated by both sides of the aisle, reflecting the depth of her impact and the profound respect she garnered from her peers.
“I once thought that Geraldine Thompson had the ability to fly, and I continue to believe so,” said Kate Payne, a corps member with The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a non-profit national service program that assigns journalists to local newsrooms to cover neglected topics.
