Lawrence County Mourns the Loss of Former Sheriff and Judge/Executive

By Roberta Cantrell
BSN Editor

David L. Compton, 90, passed away peacefully from this life on Aug. 24. Born April 3, 1935, one of 14 children to the late W.D. and Laura Vanhorn Compton.

In his young life and while growing a family with Geri, his late wife of 49 years, he worked in the Steam Power Division of Armco Steel, where he retired after 35 years. He later entered the world of politics and at the age of 39 was elected Sheriff and later elected twice as County Judge Executive, where he worked tirelessly to make his county and community a better place to live. In 2010 he left the field of politics to spend time with his family and farm the land he loved so well. Dave was also a member of Apperson Masonic Lodge #195 F. & A.M.

He treasured his farm where at one time he had animals of all kinds, and would grow a beautiful, plentiful garden. He loved to take fishing trips with his wife, sons, grandsons, and friends.

Former LC Treasurer Sabrina Cantrell had many fond memories of Compton in and out of the office.

“I worked for Dave for 8 years and though he was quiet sometimes, he could always make me laugh. He treated everyone with kindness and respect,” said Cantrell. “He always treated us like family. Gary and I were the first couple he ever married as Judge. My daughter Bri always called him Papaw Dave and was always wanting to go to the farm to visit him. Kids just loved to be around him.  He was an amazing, hard-working, family-loving man and he will be missed by so many who loved him. I feel blessed to have had him in my life.”

Another colleague of Compton, Ashontae Ellis shared her memories in her own words, saying she will cherish the moments she shared working with him.

The slow gait of cowboy boots clicking across the courtroom floor—announced his arrival well before he ever crossed the office door. Those boots carried the weight of a quiet man full of kindness and a true Southern gentleman. For a short time, I had the great privilege of a front row seat watching him serve as Lawrence County Judge-Executive. The Judge had a deep love for the county and the people he served. Working for him, I witnessed the value of leading with strength while keeping a gentle demeanor. His granddaughter recently said that Dave didn’t always need to speak, but when he did, the whole room would listen. Boy, did she nail it. He embodied quiet strength and humility; someone you could trust to lead in the right direction. Someone you could respect.

It truly takes a unique characteristic not to get caught up in the seemingly stickiness of any job, but especially politics at any level. When I found myself frustrated by the unkind things people said—often taken out of context or simply untrue—the Judge would laugh softly and shake his head, brushing it all off with a smile. Many of my favorite one-liners came from him. For instance, when I’d express my exasperation, saying that the place was making me crazy, he would chuckle and respond, “That’s just one quick trip around the courthouse for

you, isn’t it? followed by that warm smile of his. A quick reminder that whatever it was not that serious.

Dave Compton was more than just a colleague; he was both a mentor and a friend. I am thankful to the Lord for the lessons he taught me, not through words but by exemplifying a life of servant leadership. I cherish the laughter we shared and the memories we created

while serving the community we both loved. There will never be a time I hear the distinct sound of cowboy boots clicking on a hard surface and not think of him.”

Compton leaves behind his wife Kathy of 18 years; 5 children: Debbie Adams, Marda Hopkins (Ben), Lance Compton (Tery), Bryan Compton (Sherry), and Michelle Miller (Rick); his sisters and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Masonic funeral services were conducted Wednesday, Aug. 27, at Young Funeral Home, Louisa.