Ronnie Thompson (politician)

Ronnie Thompson
Thompson during the 1960s
Mayor of Macon, Georgia
In office
November 1967 – 1975
Preceded byBenjamin Franklin Merritt Jr.
Succeeded byBuck Melton
Personal details
Born(1934-07-21)July 21, 1934
Augusta, Georgia, U.S.
DiedMarch 22, 2020(2020-03-22) (aged 85)
Political partyRepublican
Democratic
ProfessionSinger
musician
politician
counselor

Ronald John "Ronnie" Thompson Sr. (July 21, 1934 – March 22, 2020), also known by "Machine Gun Ronnie" Thompson, was an American gospel singer, politician, musician, and mental health caseworker. During the 1960s, Thompson became a household name across Georgia and parts of the American South for his live gospel music television shows. He also recorded and released his own contemporary Christian and country music albums and singles.[1] In 1967, Thompson was elected Mayor of Macon, Georgia, becoming the city's first Republican mayor in its history.[1] He became known for his unorthodox, often controversial, views and colorful, charismatic personality during his tenure as mayor, which spanned two terms from 1967 to 1975.[1][2]

  1. ^ a b c Kovac Jr., Joe (March 27, 2020). "'Flamboyant,' controversial former Macon mayor 'Machine Gun Ronnie Thompson dead at 85". The Telegraph (Macon). Archived from the original on March 28, 2020. Retrieved April 19, 2020.
  2. ^ Horne, Chris (January 27, 2010). "'Machine Gun' Ronnie Thompson back to work after stroke". The Telegraph. Archived from the original on April 20, 2020. Retrieved April 20, 2020.