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.