Remembering Jay Thompson
July 16, 2026
(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) – Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, P.L.L.C. is deeply saddened to share the news of the death of our colleague and friend, Jay Thompson on Saturday, July 11.
Jay joined Mitchell Williams in 2024, after a distinguished career in Texas insurance law and public policy. Although his time with the firm was far too brief, he brought a depth of experience, practical judgement and industry relationships that made him one of the most respected insurance regulatory attorneys in Texas.
For over 50 years, Jay represented insurers, trade associations, and industry coalitions in regulatory, legislative and litigation matters involving the business of insurance. He regularly participated in proceedings before the Texas Department of Insurance, including contested case hearings, contested rate hearings, policy form approvals, rulemaking, licensing, mergers, acquisitions and other regulatory matters.
A passionate advocate, he worked closely with Texas leaders to find constructive solutions to complex legislative issues. Jay wrote numerous bills and amendments to the Texas Insurance Code. He also represented insurers in litigation involving bad faith, tax disputes against the state of Texas, appeals from administrative actions at the Texas Department of Insurance, reinsurance disputes and disputes between companies and agents.
For many years, Jay represented industry organizations including the Association of Fire & Casualty Companies in Texas, the Insurance Council of Texas, the Texas Association of Life and Health Insurers, the former Texas Insurance Advisory Association, the Texas Windstorm Pool and the Joint Underwriting Association.
“Jay was deeply respected throughout the insurance regulatory industry for his knowledge and client service” Managing Partner Derrick W. Smith said. “His experience with complex regulatory and legislative matters was exceptional, and we were grateful to have him as part of Mitchell Williams. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”
Jay earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Texas Tech University and a law degree from the University of Texas School of Law. He served on active duty in the United States Air Force from 1972 to 1976 and in the Air Force Reserve until his retirement in 1999 as a lieutenant colonel. His military honors included the Reginald C. Harmon Award as the outstanding reserve judge advocate in the U.S. Air Force, as well as recognition as the outstanding reserve officer at Lackland Air Force Base and Air Training Command.
Jay will be deeply missed by his colleagues at Mitchell Williams and by the many clients, industry leaders and friends who had the privilege of working with him. His legacy of service, leadership and dedication to the insurance industry and his country will long be remembered.
About Mitchell Williams
Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard, P.L.L.C. is a full-service corporate law firm with Arkansas roots and national reach. For over 70 years, the firm has provided sophisticated legal counsel to individuals, entities and corporations for everything from day-to-day business needs to the most complex, specialized corporate matters. From offices in Little Rock, Rogers and Jonesboro, Arkansas and Austin, Texas, we leverage the power of experience. Learn more at www.mitchellwilliamslaw.com.