*In lieu of flowers and food, we request donations be made in her honor to WellsBuilt.org.*
A Woman of Virtue: The Legacy of Geraldine Thompson
"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies." – Proverbs 31:10
Geraldine Fortenberry Thompson was more than a leader; she was a Proverbs 31 woman, a woman of strength, wisdom, and unwavering faith who dedicated her life to service, justice, and empowerment. Her legacy, deeply rooted in faith and perseverance, mirrors the scripture’s portrait of a virtuous woman—one who is clothed with dignity, speaks with wisdom, and labors tirelessly for the good of her community.
A Life of Purpose and Service
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1948 to the late Vardaman and Annie Mae Fortenberry. Geraldine Thompson and her brother, the late Wille Lee Fortenberry, moved to Florida at a young age, where her journey of faith and service began. In Miami, the family would join the New Jerusalem Church of God in Christ. From humble beginnings, she witnessed the sacrifices of her family, who worked in agriculture and construction, shaping her deep commitment to uplifting the lives of others. Like the Proverbs 31 woman, Geraldine worked diligently, using her gifts and intellect to break down barriers and build pathways of opportunity for those who would come after her.
She pursued higher education with determination, earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami and a Master of Science in Communication from Florida State University. Her career path led her to serve as a teacher, an advocate, and a champion for education and equal opportunity. As Director of the Equal Opportunity Office at Valencia College, she worked to ensure that justice and fairness were woven into the fabric of academia, empowering countless students and faculty members.
A Soulmate and Matriarch
Geraldine Thompson was a devoted and loving wife to her beloved husband and soulmate of fifty-four years, Judge Emerson Thompson, II. Their marriage was a testament to God’s divine plan for unity, built upon faith, love, and unwavering commitment. Together, they nurtured their three children—Laurise Ann, Emerson III, and Elizabeth Ruth—in the ways of the Lord, teaching them to love God with all their hearts, cherish family, and serve others with compassion and grace.
With wisdom and generosity, Emerson and Geraldine poured into their children’s lives, ensuring they were equipped for the journey ahead through education and experience and the values of faith, integrity, and perseverance. Their legacy of love extended to their grandchildren, whom they embraced with the same devotion and care.
As pillars of strength and encouragement, Grandpa and Grandma were ever-present, their love shining brightly at every game, recital, and debutante presentation. Their steadfast presence was a reflection of God’s love—faithful, enduring, and full of joy.
A Legislative Trailblazer
"She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness." – Proverbs 31:26
Geraldine Thompson’s heart for justice propelled her into the political arena, where she became a fearless advocate for education reform, healthcare access, and civil rights. She was a trailblazer, serving in the Florida Legislature in various capacities from 2006 until her passing in 2025. As a dedicated public servant, she worked tirelessly to uplift her community, standing firm in her convictions and demonstrating unwavering courage in the face of adversity.
A veteran legislator, Thompson served in the Florida House of Representatives from 2006 to 2012 and again from 2018 to 2022. She was elected to the Florida Senate, serving from 2012 to 2016 and returning in 2022 until her passing in 2025. Her leadership extended across key legislative committees, including the Appropriations Committee on Pre-K-12 Education, where she worked to improve public education funding, access, and quality. She also served on the Education Postsecondary, Education Pre-K-12, Fiscal Policy, Judiciary, Military and Veterans Affairs, Space and Domestic Security, and Rules Committees, ensuring that Floridians received strong, ethical representation in government.
Her work in the legislature was marked by a passion for justice and equity. She fought for policies that protected marginalized communities, expanded access to education, and provided healthcare for those in need. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture, ensuring that the legacy of Black pioneers in Florida would never be forgotten. As chairman of the Florida Museum of Black History’s Task Force, she labored to create a permanent institution dedicated to telling the rich and untold stories of African American contributions. Her hands reached out to build, to heal, and to restore, embodying the spirit of the Proverbs 31 woman who "looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness." (Proverbs 31:27)
A Sisterhood of Strength
Geraldine Thompson was a leader in the political sphere and a devoted sister in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Delta Omicron Omega Chapter. She lived out service, scholarship, and sisterhood ideals with grace and fervor. She served the South Atlantic Region as a Legislative Liaison, advocating for policies that would benefit women and families across Florida. A champion for the Divine Nine, she played a pivotal role in the creation of the Divine Nine license plate in Florida, ensuring that the contributions of historically Black fraternities and sororities were recognized and honored.
Her Legacy Lives On
"Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." – Proverbs 31:28
Geraldine Thompson’s impact was immeasurable. She was a woman who gave of herself fully, pouring wisdom, love, and strength into every endeavor. She fought for those who could not fight for themselves, leaving behind a legacy of hope, courage, and perseverance. Her works will continue to praise her at the gates, as her spirit lives on in the institutions she built, the laws she championed, and the countless lives she touched.
As we honor her memory, we are reminded that a virtuous woman’s worth is indeed far above rubies. Geraldine Thompson walked in the footsteps of the great women of faith before her, leaving behind footprints for generations to follow.
She leaves to mourn her passing her devoted husband of 54 years, Judge Emerson Thompson, II; daughters, Laurise Ann Thomas (John), Elizabeth Ruth Grace (Jack, Jr.); a son, Emerson Thompson, III (Renee); grandchildren, Jasmyne Nicole Dumars (Paul), Courtney Thomas, Imani Gerriann Thomas, Kiara Renee Thompson, Symone Pauline Thompson, Jacqueline Elizabeth Grace, and Julia Emerson Grace; and a great-grandson, Paul Eric Dumars, III; in laws, Matt Thompson (Dr. Shelly Lorraine), Bliss Thompson, Gay Bernard Thompson, and Emily Fortenberry; and a host of nieces and nephews and sorrowing friends. Geraldine Thompson was preceded in death by her parents, Vardaman and Annie Mae Fortenberry and her brother, Willie Lee Fortenberry.
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Dianne Prince and Family says
February 20, 2025 at 11:25 AMJudge Thompson and Family, May the Lord cover you with His deepest compassion during this time of loss.
Robin Houser Curry says
February 20, 2025 at 7:27 PMMy sincerest condolences to the family may God comfort you all as only HE can and will. Senator Thompson was a blessing to my life as a young girl, I took many of her talks and applied them to my life. She will never be forgotten and her love and memories live on in my life.
Eddie Marayne says
February 21, 2025 at 10:13 PMJudge Thompson and Family of Senator Geraldine Thompson. With deepest sorrow and condolences please accept my sadness as others are saddened by your loss.
Anonymous says
February 22, 2025 at 7:17 PMPrayers for the Thompson family in this time of sorrow,
Bernie & Susan Presha
Orlando, Florida
Don and Maria Dempsey says
February 23, 2025 at 1:07 AMGod’s Blessings to Emerson Thompson and Family. Our prayers are with you. We will remember the good times that we shared.
Anonymous says
February 23, 2025 at 1:41 AMTo Judge Thompson and The Rest of The Family of Senator Geraldine Thompson, we would like to express our most sincere and deepest condolences during your difficult time of grief. Our Community, State&Nation have loss a truly great fighter and leader! Prayers continue for The Family🙏🏾
(Melvin Pittman&daughter Tiffany)
Dr. Debra Thomas says
February 24, 2025 at 12:36 AMTo the Thompson Family
My prayers and condolences are extended to you in this time of bereavement, continue to cherish her memory and trust in the Lord. Be blessed Dr. Debra Thomas and Niema Thomas
Ira D Westbrook says
February 24, 2025 at 10:35 AMBlessings to the family 🙏 be strong 🙏
Dot Newsome says
February 24, 2025 at 1:35 PMSo sorry for your loss keeping the family in ours prayers we love you
Cassandra Patterson/Family says
February 24, 2025 at 5:47 PMCondolences to the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We wish you strength and comfort throughout the days ahead. 🙏🏽🕊️🙏🏽
Equal Ground Education Fund says
February 24, 2025 at 5:57 PMEqual Ground humbly honors the life and legacy of our beloved Senator Geraldine F. Thompson, a faithful servant of justice, equality, and democracy. Her journey was guided by a divine calling to uplift the voiceless, break down barriers, and create a more just world for all. Throughout her distinguished career, Senator Thompson walked in the spirit of righteousness, dedicating herself to ensuring that every person had the opportunity to live with dignity and hope.
Senator Thompson was a vessel of change and a beacon of light in Florida politics, making history as the first female Democrat and person of color to serve Florida House District 44. She later represented Senate District 15, where she poured her heart into serving communities such as Parramore, Pine Hills, Winter Garden, Ocoee, the Dr. Phillips area, Eatonville, Apopka, and Washington Shores. Her love for the people she served was evident in her unwavering commitment to justice and equality, and she carried out her work with a heart full of grace and a spirit of compassion.
As the Senate sponsor of the Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Voting Rights Act of Florida, Senator Thompson championed the sacred right to vote, seeking to remove the chains of oppression that have long burdened communities of color. Her passion for democracy was rooted in a deep spiritual conviction that all people are created equal and deserve to have their voices heard. Her fight to uphold the right to vote was a testament to her faith and belief in a brighter future for all Floridians.
Beyond her legislative achievements, Senator Thompson was a devoted educator, historian, and advocate. She spent six years as an Orange County Public Schools teacher before serving 24 years as an administrator at Valencia Community College, where she founded the College Reach Out Program, opening doors of opportunity for countless students. She was also a guardian of history, ensuring that the stories and contributions of African Americans in Central Florida were preserved and honored. Through her work in restoring and preserving the Wells’Built Hotel, now the Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture, she left an everlasting testament to the resilience and triumph of Black heritage.
Her legislative record was a reflection of her love for justice and humanity. She fought for the exoneration of the Groveland Four, sought justice for the wrongfully convicted James Joseph Richardson, and championed protections for pregnant women in the workplace. Her life was a testimony to her steadfast faith, her enduring love for the people, and her calling to make a difference in the lives of others.
Senator Thompson’s impact was recognized through numerous awards, including the 2022-2023 Humanitarian Award from the Orlando International Film Festival, the 2021 Civil Rights Hall of Fame induction from the City of Orlando, and the 2019 MLK Humanitarian Award from Central Florida Steppers. These accolades merely scratch the surface of the immeasurable contributions she made to the world.
Equal Ground lifts up our prayers for the Thompson family and all those who were blessed to know her. May her life serve as an eternal reminder that faith, love, and justice walk hand in hand. As we honor her legacy, let us carry forward the work she so passionately pursued, ensuring that her vision of a just, fair, and equitable world continues to shine brightly for generations to come. Well done, good and faithful servant. Rest in power, Senator Geraldine F. Thompson.
Humbly submitted this 24th day of February, 2025,
On behalf of the Equal Ground Education Fund
Mary Alice Curry Key says
February 25, 2025 at 7:52 PMTo the Thompson Family
Expressing my condolences to Bro. Emerson and family. Just remember Sis. Geraldine is now Safe in Gods Arms. Be strong.
Johnny Key says
February 25, 2025 at 7:54 PMTo the Thompson Family. Be strong
Johnny Key says
February 25, 2025 at 7:55 PMMy prayers are with you and your family
N. Y. Nathiri says
February 26, 2025 at 9:52 PMOn behalf of the Association to Preserve the Eatonville Community, Inc. (P.E.C.), I extend our organization’s condolences to the Family of Senator Geraldine Thompson, a woman’s whose commitment to community uplift was consistent and continual. May her example serve as Guidance to those whose wish to pay respect to the Legacy she has left.
Barbara Ashley-Jones says
February 27, 2025 at 3:07 AMMy deepest condolences to Judge Thompson and the family of Senator Geraldine Thompson. She will truly be missed. I fondly remember the old days of polities and seeing her whenever I visited Florida State Capital in Tallahassee, always standing strong for the people.
Senator Thompson fought tirelessly for what was right, never wavering in her commitment to the community. Her history and her fight for justice will always be remembered. She was a true advocate for the people, dedicated to making a difference in every way she could.
To her family, I send my blessings and prayers. May you find strength during this difficult time. Her legacy of service and dedication will live on.
The West Orange Chamber of Commerce says
February 27, 2025 at 5:03 PMJudge Thompson and Family,
It is with a tremendously heavy heart and an immense sense of loss that the West Orange Chamber of Commerce mourns the loss of your wife, Florida State Senator Geraldine “Geri” Thompson. Geraldine was a friend of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, and saying goodbye is never easy. It is particularly challenging when that special person is the corner-stone of the family. Mothers are the anchor with the recipe of courage, fortitude, resilience, and compassion. Please know there are a host of Chamber members, former colleagues, neighbors, and community members who join us in sharing your grief and tremendous loss. We are here for you and your family and offer our support at this time.
Senator Thompson will be remembered for many things. Many of us will remember the feisty, yet elegant woman with accolades too numerous to list. As we reflect on the life of Senator Thompson, those of us who had the opportunity and pleasure of meeting her know she was a brilliant, magnanimous woman. The matriarch, educator, trailblazer, historian, civil rights advocate, Soror, innovator, and mentor to many, Senator Thompson embraced public service, caring deeply for her West Orange community.
Judge Thompson, to you and your family, thank you for sharing Geri with us. We will forever remember the woman who cared so deeply about family, friends, neighbors, and our Chamber community. We are all better because of Senator Geraldine F. Thompson and her tireless commitment not only to our community but also to the great state of Florida. Her legacy lives on through you and your family.
We offer our heartfelt sympathies and prayers to you and the entire Thompson family. May the warm memories of Geraldine soothe and comfort you now and in the coming days, and may God be your refuge and your strength.
Vincent Sparrow says
February 28, 2025 at 6:39 AMMy deepest condolences and prayers to Dr. ELIZABETH and the Thompson family. Continued Blessings and Prayers.
Neal McShane says
March 3, 2025 at 6:44 PMMy most genuine and sincerest condolences to Emerson and Geraldine’s family and friends.
Community Legal Services says
March 3, 2025 at 9:21 PMSenator Thompson has been not only a pillar, but a cornerstone of the Central Florida community. Senator Thompson’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication, fierce advocacy, and boundless love for her community. Her tireless efforts to uplift the community and preserve history have left a mark on Central Florida and beyond. Her kindness, wisdom, and resilience will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps. May we honor her by carrying forward her vision of equality and empowerment for all.
To Judge Thompson and family, we offer our deepest sympathies and are wishing you comfort, strength, and peace in the days ahead.
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