GA Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson Dies At 59

ATLANTA, GA — Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson, 59, died Sunday, months after a reported pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

While Lt. Gov. Burt Jones did not indicate a cause of death, Jones confirmed Thompson died early Sunday.

"Bruce always lived his life according to the teachings of the Bible and never feared from spreading his love for the church with others," Thompson said in a statement. "He continued his life of public service as Georgia's Department of Labor commissioner, where he made significant changes to improve workforce outcomes for citizens across the state."

After announcing his cancer diagnosis eight months ago, Thompson advised he would fight through his battle, the Associated Press reported.

Thompson has served as labor commissioner since Jan. 12, 2023, succeeding former labor commissioner Mark Butler.

"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," labor officials said in a news release.

A Montana native, he was raised on a farm and later attended college on a wrestling scholarship, according to his biography. He also served six years within the Tank/Armored Division of the U.S. Army National Guard.

Fast-forward, Thompson became a Georgia senator in 2013 and was awarded Legislator of the Year multiple times. He has served as chairman of the Science and Technology Committee, the Veterans and Homeland Security Committee and the Economic Development and Tourism Committee.

Jones said he served with Thompson in the Georgia Senate.

"Bruce will be dearly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him," Jones said.

Gov. Brian Kemp said Thompson was a "successful businessman" and a "respected leader."

"Bruce was a passionate voice for what he believed in throughout his years of service to the people of Georgia," Kemp said in a statement. "We are thankful for that commitment to our state and, like so many others, have been inspired by the strength and courage he showed over the past year in his fight against cancer. That bravery and determination, along with his impact on others, will not be forgotten."

Thompson lived in Cartersville with his wife of 26 years. He had a son and daughter, according to his biography.

As of Monday, his successor had not been appointed.