The Judge Myron H. Thompson Courtroom: 45 Years in the Making

The tribute began on September 16 with the unveiling of Judge Thompson’s portrait by celebrated local artist Marquerite Edwards, who also had the honor of painting Thompson’s predecessor Judge Frank M. Johnson, Jr. decades earlier. After a warm welcome by Chief Judge Emily Marks, Dr. Laurie Jean Weil spoke on The Value of Civic Art. Suzanne La Rosa moderated a conversation between Edwards and Judge Thompson about their portraiture experience together. The event ended with Judge Thompson’s remarks on the occasion. Following the event, the judges’ portraits were carefully hung outside the doors of the historic courtroom.

On the following day, over 200 judges, officials, colleagues, family and friends gathered for the courtroom dedication. The Tuskegee University Concert Choir performed selections before remarks from Judge Thompson’s brother Lawrence, his colleagues on the bench, and a moving video presentation featuring his closest friends and colleagues. Judge Thompson closed the event with his trademark humor, singular anecdotes, and tremendous gratitude for the occasion. A beautiful marble plaque now hangs outside the courtroom marking the occasion and the renaming of the courtroom.