SR 12: Thompson, Bruce A.; condolences

Senate Resolution 12

By: Senators Kennedy of the 18th, Gooch of the 51st, Anavitarte of the 31st, Robertson of the 29th, Walker III of the 20th and others

A RESOLUTION

Honoring and celebrating the life and legacy of Bruce A. Thompson; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia celebrates the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Bruce A. Thompson, a visionary leader, devoted mentor, and dedicated public servant whose entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence will continue to inspire and shape the future for generations of Georgians to come; and

WHEREAS, Bruce Thompson was born in California and raised on a farm in Montana, where he embraced the values of hard work and perseverance from an early age; and

WHEREAS, these principals earned him a college wrestling scholarship and laid the foundation for a lifetime of service, beginning with six years in the United States Army National Guard; and

WHEREAS, a natural entrepreneur, Bruce launched his first business at the age of 10 and went on to build a remarkable portfolio of ventures, including two automatic pool cover companies, six insurance agencies, two funeral homes, and several software firms; and

WHEREAS, he moved to Georgia in 1990 and immersed himself in his community, serving his church, mentoring future leaders, and contributing to organizations such as the SBA Advisory Board, Truett McConnell University, and the Etowah Scholarship Foundation; and

WHEREAS, Bruce began his legislative career in 2013 as a Georgia State Senator, where he chaired several committees and authored landmark legislation, including the Heartbeat Bill, the Dexter Mosley Act, and the Carnival Safety Act, earning recognition as "Legislator of the Year" many times; and

WHEREAS, known as the "turnaround specialist," Bruce's passion for problem solving inspired his successful run as Georgia's tenth Labor Commissioner; and

WHEREAS, his tenure at the Georgia Department of Labor was marked by a renewed focus on transparency, responsiveness, and fiscal responsibility; values he championed with his trademark determination and integrity; and

WHEREAS, with the spirit of a fighter and the compassion borne of strong faith, Bruce was known as a mentor to many in the business community and political arena; and

WHEREAS, Bruce A. Thompson courageously lost his eight-month-long battle with pancreatic cancer on November 24, 2024, leaving behind a powerful legacy of leadership and service; and

WHEREAS, Bruce cherished his role as father and often spoke of his gratitude for the privilege of raising his son, Max, and his daughter, Faith, alongside his wife of nearly 28 years, Becky; and

WHEREAS, a devoted believer in Jesus Christ, Bruce lived his life guided by faith, embodying the words of Psalm 138:1 even in the most difficult times.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body join in honoring the extraordinary life and leadership of Bruce A. Thompson, celebrating his profound contributions to the State of Georgia, and expressing deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the family of Bruce A. Thompson.