Heaven gained a beautiful soul when Charles Edward Compton, age 78, of Tuscaloosa, died February 21, 2023, at UAB Medical Center with his wife and daughter by his side.
Born in the Jefferson Community of Demopolis, AL, Charles was raised to love the Lord. He received a Bachelor of Science in Commerce & Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from The University of Alabama then spent four years in Air Force – Captain Central Procurement. While in the Air Force he taught at night: accounting, finance, and economics – the University of Georgia.
Upon detaching from the Air Force and in pursuit of professional employment, Charles created “Training and Experience Report,” which was used as an example in the textbook “Communicating Through Letters And Reports.” Charles also received a Masters in Banking and Finance from Indiana University.
In early 1972, Charles and Roberta moved to Tuscaloosa where Charles advanced to Sr. Vice President of First Federal Savings and Loan. In 1985 Charles established Compton Properties, Inc, a real estate development company. Charles built apartment complexes before specializing in residential real estate, completing 13 garden home communities in Tuscaloosa and Northport.
Charles was a member of University Church of Christ and former member of Central Church of Christ, where he served as a Deacon. He joyfully taught Sunday school at both congregations and actively pursued the study of God’s word, a heritage passed on by his mother. Charles excelled in doing good for others, supporting Christian Children’s Homes as well as other charities.
As a marksman and outdoor enthusiast, Charles spent many hours hunting, sailing, fishing, and traveling the US with his family and close friends. Charles was a man of few words, using his ears more than his mouth, and exhibited a dry sense of humor, often saying funny things with a serious, calm expression.
He was a member of Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa, the Executive Club, Tuscaloosa Sailing Club, Alabama Forestry Association, a long-standing member of The Tuscaloosa Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow.
Charles is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Roberta Rowland Compton; daughter Julia Ashley Compton of Mountain Brook; sister-in-law Katrina Dunn Compton; nephews Hunter Compton, Jr (Lisa) and Mike Compton; great nieces Catherine Grace and Mary Helen Compton, all of Demopolis. He was preceded in death by his parents Julia Atkeison and Hunter Compton and his brother Louis Hunter Compton, all of Demopolis.
Friends will be received on Saturday, March 4th 10:00 AM followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Tuscaloosa Memorial Chapel. A graveside and burial will follow at 3:30 PM at the Compton Family Cemetery in the Jefferson Community just south of Demopolis, AL. Mark Sullivan and John Tyra, Elders of University Church of Christ, will officiate.
Pallbearers are Jon Fleenor, Rick Chambliss, Steve Ray, Greg Rhoden, Walter Starks, and Jimmy Warren.
Honorary Pallbearers are Dr. and Mrs. Maurice Mettee, Jr, Mr. and Mrs. Lee Belcher and the members of University Church of Christ.
Charles’ family and friends truly cherish this Gentleman and our many happy memories. Charles exhibited the joy and peace of Christian living – this best characterizes his life.
