HR260INTRODUCED
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HR260
ZQZ1URK-1
By Representative Sells
RFD:
First Read: 17-Apr-25
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5 ZQZ1URK-1 04/16/2025 NG (L)NG 2025-1673
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First Read: 17-Apr-25
HR____ MOURNING THE DEATH AND CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF JAMES
MERLE SASSER COMPTON.
WHEREAS, it is with profound sorrow that we note the
death of James Merle Sasser Compton on her 92nd birthday,
April 12, 2025; her departure leaves a void in the lives of
her loving family, many friends, and the community where she
was highly regarded; and
WHEREAS, born in 1933 in Brantley, Alabama, and
affectionately known as "Merle," she 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, Mrs. Merle became an
exceptional seamstress, renown for her exquisite work in
quilting, smocking, embroidery, and appliqué; her creations
are treasured heirlooms , especially the unique Easter
dresses she lovingly made for her daughters and
granddaughters and the cherished Christening gowns sewn for
each of her grandchildren; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. 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,
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grace; her home was always filled with warmth, good food,
and love, making every gathering special; and
WHEREAS, with a gentle touch and an intuitive
understanding of nature, Mrs. Merle transformed barren
spaces into vibrant southern landscapes; her 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; and
WHEREAS, professionally, Mrs. Compton 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, Mrs.
Merle was the undisputed queen of game day tailgates, where
many came not only for the camaraderie but for a taste of
her homestyle cooking; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Merle Compton was preceded in death by
the love of her life and devoted husband, Samuel Webster
Compton; and her sister, Bonnie Ruth Taylor; she will be
lovingly remembered by her beloved sister, Evelyn Brown;
children, Adaline Compton Fage n (Ralph), Samuel Wade Compton
(Barbara), Teresa Compton Guarcello (Steve), and Leigh
Compton Matthews (Todd); honorary daughter, Scottie Penton
Oliver (Shane); and adored grandchildren, Max Fagen, Jacob
Fagen, Samantha Fender, Thomas Ray Compton, Nicholas
Guarcello, Madison Matthews Barker, MacKenzie Matthews
Harris, and Penton Oliver; and
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Harris, and Penton Oliver; and
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE
LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA, That the death of James Merle Sasser
Compton is recorded with deep sadness, and this resolution
is offered to her family in tribute to her life and with
heartfelt sympathy to her loved ones whose grief is shared
by many.
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