Albert Kelley Compton, “Big Kool”, 70, passed away suddenly on September 13, 2026.

Kelley was born in Savannah and went to the Charles Ellis School before graduating from Savannah High School.

Besides Ardsley Park, Kelley truly grew up with his family in the country outside of Pooler, back when there was no I-16, at the Black Ankle Lodge, compliments of his dad’s employer, Atlantic Wood Industries. It was there that he developed his love for nature and the outdoors. After graduation, he went to work for Atlantic Wood where he helped run Chatham County’s only quail preserve by cutting fire breaks, planting food plots, working the dogs and tending to the woods. Later, he worked at the plant under the guidance of his good friend James Marsh until the plant closed. His final years before retirement were spent as a delivery driver for Savannah Distributing, where rumor had it, no one wanted to work beside him because they could not keep up. The man could do the work of two, if not three!

His final years in retirement were spent as he wanted…. in the woods, with friends and always working harder than he should.  

Kelley was what one would call a “trench buddy”, and he would do anything for you, give you his last dollar or the shirt off his back. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a way too large imagination. His love of animals was second to none, and especially his dogs who were his true companions. He cherished his family and friends and was devoted to all. 

Kool, we will miss you, and we will never forget you!

Kelley is survived by his brothers, Chip Compton (Alva), Savannah, John Compton (Paula), Savannah, and sister, Kathy Compton, Highlands, NC.  Also surviving are his nephews, Charlie Compton (Laura) Gulfstream, Fl, Tucker Compton (Leslie), Savannah, Kelley Compton, (Katherine), Savannah, Tayloe Compton (Kerrie Ann), Atlanta, Robert Compton (Katherine), Savannah, Will Allred (Laura) Atlanta, his niece, Katherine Allred, two grandnephews, and five grandnieces.

Special thanks go to Tricia and John Bacich who lived next to Kelley for over (50) years. Their friendship, guidance and generosity is unsurpassed, and they will always be considered family.

A private memorial service and burial will be held for the family.  

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that you consider a donation in Kelley’s memory to St John’s Church, 1 West Macon Street, Savannah, Ga. 31401.