Albert Westbrook “Buck” Compton Jr. passed away peacefully at his home on Nov. 30, 2016 at the age of 84.
Buck was born on June 13, 1932 in Nanafalia, Alabama. He graduated from Sweet Water High School and Auburn University. While at Auburn he served as president of the School of Agriculture, vice president of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity and graduated with a degree in agricultural sciences in 1954. Buck met his future wife, Barbara Bugg, during their sophomore year of college. They married on June 17, 1954. After graduating from Auburn, he served in the U.S. Air Force as a second lieutenant. Upon completion of his time in the service, he returned to the farm where he and his father, expanded their cattle and farming operation. In addition, they owned a timber company and country store. Buck continued to own the store and cattle business until his recent retirement.
Buck was a man of faith who loved and trusted the Lord every day. He was a loyal member of Sweet Water United Methodist Church for over 60 years. Having taught Sunday school and serving on the board of stewards for many years, he especially enjoyed the “Men’s Club Breakfast.”
Through his life, Buck served as a leader in his community and state. He served as president of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, president of the American International Charolais Association, director of the Marengo County Cattleman’s Association, chairman of the Marengo County Soil and Water District, a member of the National Beef Board, a member of the Brian M. Whitfield Hospital Board of Directors, and was a board member of Sweet Water State Bank. Buck was recently inducted into the State of Alabama Agriculture Hall of Fame.
He loved his community and was proud to call Nanafalia and Marengo County home. His strength of character and gentle spirit will be missed by all that knew him.
Buck was preceded in death by his son, Albert Westbrook “Al” Compton III, and his parents, Albert Westbrook Compton and Lupearl Singleton Compton.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 year, Barbara Bugg Compton, and his two daughters, Cindy Compton Taylor (Wes) and Jan Compton Holley (Wood). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Molly Crawford Griffin (Adam), Thomas Alexander Crawford, Cate Compton Holley, Wesley Coleman Taylor, and Margaret Compton Taylor, and a great-grandson, Adam Vincent Griffin Jr. Survivors also include his three sisters: Joyce Harrington, Barbara Pritchett and Rosemund Compton; a sister-in-law, Caroline Brock Bugg, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
A memorial service will be held at Nanafalia Baptist Church on Saturday, Dec. 3 at 11 a.m. with burial to follow at Nanafalia Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 9:30 to 11 a.m. prior to the service.
The family requests that memorials be given to South Marengo Fire and Rescue Squad, 34818 Alabama Highway 10, Sweet Water, AL 36782 or the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Bumpers Funeral Home of Butler. Visit bumpersfuneralhome.com to sign the online register.