Former Fitzgerald Mayor and GMA President Gerald Thompson passed away Sunday, August 5.  Thompson was one of the most respected and admired city officials in Georgia and a true pillar of this association during his long and distinguished public service career. Upon his retirement in January 2012, he had served as an elected official in Fitzgerald for 46 years, the last 44 as mayor. He served as GMA president in 1976-1977 and held numerous other leadership positions in the organization. Mayor Thompson was also a past board member of the Department of Community Affairs, the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority, the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia and the State Crime Commission, in addition to numerous other state and regional organizations.
 
“Gerald was a giant among leaders and I am better for his example and influence in my life and hundreds of others,” said GMA Executive Director Larry Hanson.