John Michael Compton

John "Jack" Michael Compton went home to be with the Lord on May 18, 2015 at the age of 72. He was born on May 19, 1942 to Dr. Jack and Annie Grey Compton. Jack was raised in Charlottesville, Virginia graduating from Lane High school in 1960. He then went on to Samford University, in Birmingham, AL, graduating with a bachelors degree in Mathematics.

Jack Compton joined the USAF as an officer and went on to pilot training school at Laughlin AFB in Del Rio, TX. It was there he met his wife, Lety Laing to whom he would be married for 48 years. it was love at first sight between this young fighter pilot and this small town beauty. Jack and Lety married within a year on December 10th, 1966 just before he was deployed to fight for his country.

Jack was an F-4 fighter pilot in the USAF during the Vietnam War and Korean conflict era. Captain Compton was known as one of the brightest and best fighter pilots of his day, flying along side famous test pilot Colonial Chuck Yeager, who is known for being the first to break the sound barrier. Jack was chosen as lead pilot in the "missing man fly by" formation at President Eisenhower's funeral in 1969 over the U.S. Capital.

Jack Compton then spent 35 years at NASA training astronauts and was instrumental in the formation of the Sky Lab, Space Shuttle and Space Station programs. Jack was responsible for mission planning, flight data, and led the astronaut preparation process. Jack is credited for writing the "Astronaut's Bible" during the space Shuttle program.

While Jack Compton could've bragged about his earthly accomplishments, his legacy stands as one of humility, gentleness and servant hood. Jack Compton was the first to serve, always putting others before himself. He loved the Lord Jesus with all his heart, soul and mind. Everyone who was privileged to know Jack immediately felt his unselfish love, caring heart and compassionate spirit. One of his greatest joys in life was serving as an usher and greeter at Compassion Church in San Antonio, TX, where his son Adrian pastors. While there is a gaping hole here on earth without Jack Compton, angels are rejoicing at his presence in Heaven. We will see him again.

Jack Compton is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Leticia Laing Compton; Sons John Anthony Compton and Adrian Brian Compton, Grandson John Jr., and Brother Sam Compton.

A Visitation is set for Tuesday, May 26, 2015 from 5:00pm to 9:00pm and a Funeral Service on Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at 12:00pm at Sunset North Funeral Home with a graveside Service at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery to follow. The Compton family will host a reception for all guests immediately after the graveside service at 1050 Harry Wurzbach at Fort Sam Houston Golf Club.