David Russell Compton

David Russell Compton entered eternal rest on March 13, 2012, of accidental injuries, age 61. A long-time resident of New Orleans, he was born in Providence, Rhode Island, on December 16, 1950, the son of the late CAPT Raymond Compton, USN and the late Elsie Ruth Hall Compton.

Mr. Compton’s business interests were many and varied. In his youth, he was in the merchant marine, and sailed to India and Pakistan. He also managed the Bridge Bowl Texaco in Algiers. He was an independent distributor for the States-Item in uptown New Orleans during the 1970s. Later, he developed his interest in wood-working into a partnership as Custom Milled Cypress, specializing in cypress shutters, blinds and custom millwork. Still later, he owned and operated an independent over-the-road truck line for many years. Most recently, he was an owner-operator with United Cabs of New Orleans.

A lifelong student of philosophy, Mr. Compton was an avid chess player in his younger years, and participated in many tournaments. Later, his sporting interests turned to poker, in which he was also a frequent tournament player. More recently, he found great enjoyment in organic gardening.

He will long be remembered for his kind, giving nature and his many generosities.

There wasn't a mean bone in his body; he had the biggest heart. He would give you the shirt off his back; and we all watched him do it, time after time, year after year.

Mr. Compton is survived by his widow, Laura Hoyt Compton, a daughter, Elizabeth Kimball Compton, and a son, Trevor Steward Compton. He is also survived by brothers Raymond Francis Compton II, Kevin (KC Casey) Charles Compton and Robert “Robbie” Stephen Compton, and sisters Susan Marie Compton Karahalios, Carol Louise Compton DeLine and Cynthia Anne Compton Siddiq, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the evening memorial service in the Chapel of Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home, 3827 Canal St.; on Saturday, March 17, 2012 at 7:00 pm. Visitation will begin at 4:00 pm until service time. Condolences may be expressed online at www.schoencanalstreet.com