Retired Fulton Judge Dies Due To Illness: Sheriff

ATLANTA, GA — A retired Fulton County judge, the uncle of local Sheriff Patrick "Pat" Labat, has died due to an extended illness, the Fulton County Sheriff's Office said Wednesday.

Judge Albert Leroy Thompson, Jr. died on Oct. 12, authorities said. He spent nearly 30 years in public service, ultimately retiring as chief judge of Fulton County's state court.

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"Beyond the courtroom, Judge Thompson was a devoted father, passionate traveler and lifelong learner who embraced life with curiosity and grace," authorities said in a news release.

Thompson graduated from Morehouse College and earned his juris doctorate degree from Boston College School of Law in 1972, authorities said. While at Morehouse, they said Thompson served as a special writing assistant to Dr. Benjamin E. Mays.

Upon returning to Atlanta, where he practiced law, authorities said worked on political campaigns for President Jimmy Carter and former Mayor Maynard Jackson. He eventually embarked on a judicial career.

"The Fulton County Sheriff's Office extends its heartfelt condolences to Judge Thompson's family during this difficult time. His legacy of service and the lives he touched will be remembered for generations," authorities said in a news release.