This week, several industry members contacted RMD to pay tribute to the impact and legacy former U.S. Senator and reverse mortgage advocate Fred Thompson left behind following his death Sunday evening.
Thompson’s passing has left an absence within the industry for all of those who have shared the honor of working, collaborating and communicating with the affable reverse mortgage champion.
Earlier this week, American Advisors Group, with whom Thompson worked as the company’s national spokesman since 2010, issued a statement upon news of his passing.
“We are incredibly proud to have worked alongside such an accomplished man with a remarkable breadth of work,” said AAG in the statement Sunday evening. “His career spanned from U.S. Senator, actor, speaker, writer, syndicated radio show host to presidential candidate. Fred imparted credibility, in-depth knowledge and genuine commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.”
Since Sunday, others have relayed statements of their condolences to pay their respects to Thompson, his family and those close to him.
“Fred Thompson was a fine gentleman, thoughtful advocate and effective spokesperson,” said Peter Bell, president and CEO of the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association. “In the case of reverse mortgages, he was more than just a celebrity featured in ads. He was a true believe in the concept and its ability to help people manage their financial affairs. This was evidenced by his counseling his own mother to use a HECM. We are saddened by his passing at such a young age and will miss his vigor and wit.”
“Our condolences go out to Fred Thompson’s family on this very sad day,” said Gregg Smith, president and chief operating officer at One Reverse Mortgage, a Quicken Loans company. “Fred was a tremendous advocate for all Americans and the American Dream.”
“He dedicated his life to making a difference for his fellow citizens, from his time as a U.S. Senator, to his Hollywood career and ultimately onto his work as one of the preeminent spokespeople and advocates for the reverse mortgage industry,” Smith added. “Fred lived an ideal-driven life and sought to make positive strides in people’s lives. And for that, he will always be remembered fondly.”
Urban Financial of America also extended condolences to its reverse mortgage industry colleagues impacted by the loss of former Sen. Thompson.
“Senator Thompson was a leading spokesperson for our industry, and helped guide many seniors to the benefits of a reverse mortgage,” Urban said in a statement provided to RMD. “He will be missed, and our thoughts are with his loved ones and friends at this difficult time.”
Thompson anchors a star cast of celebrity spokesmen, including Jerry Orbach, James Garner and Peter Graves, who have all lent their time, energy and passion to the reverse mortgage product, and its capacity to enhance the lives of many aging Americans as they strive to live out their retirement years in comfort and security.
“We thank all of these wonderful contributors for their support of our product, and for their efforts in helping us grow awareness and continuing to educate our consumers,” Urban said.
Written by Jason Oliva
