Nevada Assemblyman Tyrone Thompson passed away early Saturday morning while receiving emergency care at the Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center. He was 52 years old.
“We are deeply saddened by Assemblyman Thompson’s sudden passing,” said Assembly Speaker Jason Frierson. He was well respected by his colleagues in the Legislature for his dedication and leadership. His warm smile and larger-than-life presence will truly be missed in our Assembly chamber. We ask that you respect the privacy of his family at this difficult time.
During the 80th Legislative Session, Assemblyman Thompson also served as chairman of the Assembly Committee on Education.
Statement from @SuptJaraCCSD on the passing of @Thompson4AD17 pic.twitter.com/hUaHO3f5P2
— CCSD (@ClarkCountySch) May 4, 2019
Thompson’s tenure in the Assembly began in 2013 when he was appointed to represent District 17. Since then he had worked on important pieces of legislation, including bills that increased educational opportunities for students, improved services at state-funded family resource centers, expanded access to HIV testing, and ended employment discrimination against those with criminal records.
In addition to his membership in the Legislature, the North Las Vegas native enjoyed a career in public service that spanned nearly three decades. His more recent professional experience included positions with the Clark County Organizational Development Center, the Southern Nevada Regional Planning Coalition, and the City of Las Vegas.
The state of Nevada and @CityOfLasVegas have lost a great, most caring and genuine public servant in Assemblyman Tyrone Thompson. @Thompson4AD17
— Carolyn G. Goodman (@mayoroflasvegas) May 4, 2019
Thompson spent his free time volunteering in various community-oriented capacities. This included work in support of abused and neglected children in the foster care system as a court appointed special advocate (CASA), a role he held for more than 17 years.
Gov. Steve Sisolak has ordered the flags of the United States and State of Nevada be flown at half-staff at the state capitol and state public buildings and grounds until sunset on May 7 in honor of Thompson.
I am heartbroken by the unexpected passing of Assemblyman Tyrone Thompson. Assemblyman Thompson stood larger-than-life because of his selfless service to his fellow Nevadans. My family and I offer our deepest sympathies to Tyrone's loved ones during this difficult time.
— Governor Sisolak (@GovSisolak) May 4, 2019
Words cannot express the sorrow I feel about the loss of @Thompson4AD17. Friends since I was 19 years old. One of the first people I met in Las Vegas.A man truly dedicated to the community. A god fearing individual. The community will have a void that cannot be filled. pic.twitter.com/1Q0vrcD0RK
— Lisa Morris Hibbler (@lmorris1908) May 4, 2019
I am heartbroken to hear that last night my friend @Thompson4AD17 passed away. He was a true light in Carson City & his community. We may not have always agreed on policy, but his heart was as big & kind as anyone I have ever known. Rest In Peace my friend. You are greatly missed pic.twitter.com/2tMgyx89Dt
— Stephen Silberkraus (@Silberkraus) May 4, 2019
We hugged just last week @Thompson4AD17 in Carson City. Life is so fragile & precious. I will never forget what you told me 5 years ago at a Canyon Springs football game, “those who talk about you without bothering to get to know you, are not worthy of your time”. R.I.P.
— Peter Guzman (@OfficialPeterG_) May 4, 2019
I am deeply saddened to hear the news about my colleague Assemblyman Tyrone Thompson passing away . He was passionate about education and cared deeply about mentoring the youth of Nevada. He will be missed. #NVLeg @Thompson4AD17 pic.twitter.com/V1XwuDkmeZ
— Lisa Krasner (@LisaKrasner4NV) May 4, 2019
We are extremely saddened to learn of Assemblyman Tyrone Thompson’s passing. Nevada lost a strong leader with a warm heart. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.
— NV Dems (@nvdems) May 4, 2019
I just heard the unbelievable news about Tyrone Thompson. We lost a good one last night. Tyrone was a true public servant and strong friend of public education. And above all else, he was kind. Sending my prayers to his family and friends, our community, and our state.
— Rep. Susie Lee (@RepSusieLee) May 4, 2019
The Nevada Democratic Veterans and Military Families Caucus is saddened by the loss of Assemblyman Tyrone Thompson from Assembly District 17. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends and constituents. Sleep in Peace, Assemblyman Thompson. pic.twitter.com/G3f60QZo2B
— NV Democratic Vets (@NV_Dem_Vets) May 4, 2019
Woke up this morning to the news that we have lost Tyrone Thompson. He was truly one of the kindest most generous people I have ever met. RIP Tyrone. pic.twitter.com/aKtR3z3ibl
— Kali Fox Miller (@KaliFoxMiller) May 4, 2019
We lost a fierce advocate today, a man who brightened rooms with his smile and fought tirelessly for his community. Assemblyman Thompson, you will be missed but never forgotten. North Las Vegas is a better place because of you. pic.twitter.com/8PCY8jDptB
— North Las Vegas City (@CNLV) May 4, 2019