Hub City mourns longtime public servant, trailblazer Gerry Lynn Thompson

JACKSON, Tenn. — A former Jackson city employee is being remembered for his work as a public servant as well as a trailblazer.

According to family members, Gerry Lynn Thompson, who served as one of the first three African American firefighters with the Jackson Fire Department, passed away Wednesday at the age of 79.

Thompson, pictured left, stands amongst colleagues after receiving an award

Thompson graduated from Merry High School in Jackson in 1963. From there, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the infantry division in Germany. Thompson attended Lane College, West Tennessee Business College, and the firefighters academy.

In 1968, Thompson became one of the first three African Americans hired by the Jackson Fire Department.

He became the first Black officer to hold the rank of division captain, later becoming the first Black administrative division district chief, and ultimately retiring as the first Black fire marshal in February 2000, after 32 years of service.

Thompson, pictured 2nd from right, receives an award for his service with the Jackson Fire Department.

Funeral services for Gerry Lynn Thompson will be held next Friday, November 29 at 12 p.m. at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, which is located on 201 West Chester Street in downtown Jackson. Viewing and family time will be begin at 10 a.m. until the time of service.

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