Diana Compton

DIANA LEE BRACY COMPTON, a beautiful lady both inside and out, died peacefully at home on Monday night, February 11, 2013, with her beloved husband Gary at her side. She quietly battled myeloma for the past 12 years, and succumbed to complications of the disease and congestive heart failure.

Diana was born in Childress, Texas, February 15, 1947, the only child of Wayne and Alice Bracy. She was raised in Childress by her mother and grandparents. She went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, in three years with honors, at Texas Tech University, where she was a member of the Fashion Board. Her natural gifts in fashion and design were a part of her life. Her keen abilities to put together colors, fabrics, and art were reflected in her home and all she did.

She married her lifetime companion, sweetheart, and best friend, Gary Compton, on August 15, 1970. They first met when they were nine months old. She and Gary lived in Waco, while Gary attended law school, then they moved back to Amarillo. While in Amarillo, Diana used her talents and training to serve as a buyer and became an integral part of the team at Colbert's Department Store. Later, she was president of a natural gas marketing company and was active in the family's oil and gas business.

Diana was a loving help-mate and support for Gary, both personally and professionally. She was a gracious hostess and entertained many friends and colleagues in both Amarillo and Austin. Diana truly loved being in Austin and developed many friends and special interests over the years.

Diana was a caring person who reached out to others in need. She also supported many causes such as Angel Flight, Hospice Austin, Humane Society, Texas Tech University and Baylor University.

Diana was a friend of the heart to many. She made others feel special, whether because of a special event, or just because she wanted to share her love of life with them. She had many dear friends and enjoyed time with them, whether in a book club, over lunches or dinners, at political events, or traveling to special places. She will be deeply missed by many.

Diana also adored her extended family of pets be it dogs, cats, or parrots over the years. Elizabeth, Savannah, Victoria, and Albert held a special place in her heart.

Gary is extremely grateful for the outpouring of love and support shown to Diana and him during these past four months as her health deteriorated. She never said anything about her cancer or how sick she really was because she didn't want her family or friends to worry about her.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Humane Society, 124 West Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78752; Hospice Austin, 4107 Spicewood Springs Rd, Ste 100, Austin, TX 78759; or a charity of your choice.

Diana is survived by her beloved husband, Gary, who was always by her side; brother-in-law, Terry Compton and family; cousin, Andrew Ralston and family; Godchildren, Madison Golightly and Wilson Golightly, and many friends.

There will be a memorial service at the Texas State Cemetery, Saturday, February 16, 11:00 a.m.