Gerald "Jerry" Compton

Gerald (Jerry) Wayne Compton, 78, of Carbondale passed away Oct. 12, 2020 at home. Jerry was born in Paducah, Ky. on October 17, 1941 to Thomas and Flossie Compton. He was married to Nancy Kalert on December 28, 1969 in Royalton, IL.



Jerry graduated from SIU with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree and spent the next twenty five years teaching American History and Government at Carbondale Community High School. He was loved by many of his students for his caring and concern for them. His expectations were high but they always knew he had their best interest at heart. He served as chess coach, junior class sponsor and founding sponsor of Livesavers, a group very close to his heart.



Local government and politics were his passion. He believed strongly in the importance of being actively involved in the political process. He served in several elected positions including Jackson County Board, Township Trustee, and Chairman of the Jackson County Democrats.



Jerry was a devoted father to Angela and Stephen, doting "Papa" to grandson Ben and proud owner of favorite dog, Nicholas.



He was preceded in death by his parents and parents-in-law.



He is survived by his wife, Nancy, of Carbondale, daughter Angela Grimmer and husband Bob Grimmer, one son Stephen and grandson Ben Compton all of Carbondale.



He fought the good fight and finished his own personal race with dignity and grace. His family is left behind to cherish his memory.



Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, October 15, 2020 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Carbondale with Father Robert Flannery and Father David Kalert officiating. Burial will follow in St. Aloysius-Sacred Heart Cemetery in Royalton. A time of visitation will be from 9:00 AM until the time of service on Thursday at the church. Due to COVID-19 restrictions masks and social distancing are required.



Memorials may be made to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice of Southern Illinois.



Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Jerry visit www.meredithfh.com.