Our beloved William “Bill” H. Compton (Captain) of Auburn passed peacefully at the age of 88 years old on May 13, 2023, in Notasulga, Alabama. He was born May 24, 1934, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
He was loved by his family and friends. He enjoyed absolutely everything Auburn, as well as the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Falcons. He was a longtime member of Retired Officers, the Rotary Club and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.
Capt. Compton had a distinguished 32-year career as a U.S. Navy pilot and administrator. He closed his military career as commander of the Auburn University NROTC Unit. Captain immediately transitioned into the role of opening and operating the Auburn University Conference Center, a position he held for 12 years.
Suffering a stroke two months before his final retirement proved to be his biggest challenge. He showed that his level of strength, discipline and determination was both inspiring and admirable to all who knew him, loved him and met him.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Mary Belle Rawls; brother, Angus; sister, Joanie; and his beloved grandson, Wm. Zachary Gilbert.
Bill is survived by his loving and dedicated wife of 65 years, May D. Compton; sister, Janice DeVincenzo (Rick); children, Michael Compton (Beth), Susan Allen (Brad) and Scott Compton (Valarie); grandchildren, Jessica Compton, Matthew Compton (Annick), Justin Gilbert (Fatima), Brandon Allen (Ashley), Bailey Johnson (Ryan), Katie Carter, Nicholas Allen and Chase Compton (Joy); great-grandchildren, Zachary Gilbert, Collin Compton, Aviana Compton, James Rees and soon-to-arrive Banks Johnson.
The family wishes to thank all who cared for Bill in his last years, but most especially our friend, our sister and his girl that he loved, Shaquita Drake.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. The committal will take place immediately following the service at the Holy Trinity Columbarium. Family visitation will immediately follow in the reception hall.
