Obituary – James Merle Sasser Compton

Published 9:54 am Wednesday, April 16, 2025

James Merle Sasser Compton, affectionately known as Merle, passed away peacefully on her 92nd birthday, April 12. Funeral services for Merle were held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16, from the Chapel of Turners Funeral Home with Rev. Bill Price officiating. She was then laid to rest beside her beloved husband in Mt. Ida Cemetery.

Born in 1933 in Brantley, Merle was the cherished daughter of the late Andrew Byrd “Fel” and Benonia “Nonie” Sasser. Her remarkable talent for sewing emerged early in life, inspired by a sewing machine gifted to her from her Uncle Theron. Over the years, Merle became an exceptional seamstress, renown for her exquisite work in quilting, smocking, embroidery, and appliqué. Her creations — especially the unique Easter dresses she lovingly made for her daughters and granddaughters and the cherished Christening gowns sewn for each of her grandchildren—are treasured heirlooms.

Merle’s culinary skills were equally admired. Despite her full-time job, she effortlessly made buttermilk biscuits from scratch nearly every morning, turning the ordinary into something special with ease and grace. Her home was always filled with warmth, good food and love, making every gathering special.

With a gentle touch and an intuitive understanding of nature, Merle transformed barren spaces into vibrant southern landscapes. Merle’s green thumb was not just a skill, but a gift. In her gardens, flowers bloomed brighter, and leaves unfurled with joy. She was highlighted in the Spanish Fort newspaper for her colorful and enduring backyard sanctuary.

Professionally, Merle dedicated over 40 years to Regions Bank, where she was respected for her diligence and integrity. Yet, she often said her proudest accomplishment was putting all four of her children through the University of Alabama. A devoted Crimson Tide fan, Merle was the undisputed queen of game-day tailgates — where many came not only for the camaraderie but for a taste of her home-style cooking.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life and devoted husband, Samuel Webster Compton, and her sister, Bonnie Ruth Taylor.

Merle is survived by her beloved sister, Evelyn Brown, and her children: Adaline Compton (Ralph) Fagen, Samuel Wade (Barbara) Compton, Teresa Compton (Steve) Guarcello, and Leigh Compton (Todd) Matthews; her honorary daughter, Scottie Penton (Shane) Oliver and her adored grandchildren: Max and Jacob Fagen; Samantha Fender, Thomas Ray Compton; Nicholas Guarcello; Madison Matthews Barker; MacKenzie Matthews Harris and Penton Oliver.

Serving as pallbearers were James Barker, Joshua Harris, John Compton, Bruce Compton, Matthew Taylor and Penton Oliver. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Mount Ida Cemetery Fund, in care of Brantley Bank and Trust, 9402 North Main Street, Brantley, Alabama 36009.