Georgia Commissioner of Labor, Bruce Thompson, Passes Away

Bruce Thompson, the Georgia Commissioner of Labor, has passed away after battling advanced pancreatic cancer, a disease with a notoriously low survival rate.

Thompson, 59, was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer in March and fought the disease publicly with determination, vowing to continue his fight against the cancer with everything he had. He was surrounded by his family, friends, and colleagues when he passed.

His death was announced by the Department of Labor, with Louis DeBroux, the department’s chief of staff, describing Thompson as “a fighter, a leader, and a true servant of the people.” DeBroux praised Thompson’s leadership, vision, and tireless advocacy, noting the lasting impact he had on the families he served across Georgia.

Governor Brian Kemp expressed deep sorrow over Thompson’s passing and praised his strength during his fight with cancer. Kemp called for Georgians to pray for Thompson’s family, especially his widow, Becky, and their children, acknowledging the bravery Thompson showed during his final year.

Thompson’s career was marked by a decade of service in the Georgia State Senate and, most recently, as Commissioner of Labor. Thompson began serving in the Georgia State Senate in 2013, representing District 14. As Senator, he served as Chairman of the Science & Technology Committee. He also served on the Veterans and Homeland Security Committee, and the Economic Development and Tourism Committee. 

Governor Kemp will appoint a successor that will serve out the remainder of Thompson’s term until 2027.