Sheldon Lee Compton

Sheldon Lee Compton, a distinguished Sports Director for Mountain Top News and Media, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at Pikeville Medical Center. Born on April 23, 1976, Sheldon’s life was marked by dedication, talent, and a profound commitment to his family, community, and craft.

A proud native of Pikeville, Sheldon earned a Master’s degree, which laid the foundation for his remarkable career. His professional journey was multifaceted and inspiring. As an accomplished journalist, novelist, and poet with five published books, Sheldon was proudly known as the Appalachian Writer. Beyond his written achievements, he was also a Kentucky Board Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, demonstrating a compassionate dedication to helping others overcome their challenges. Sheldon had a love for music and songwriting and was a talented musician.  However, his greatest accomplishment was being the proud father of his two children.

Sheldon’s colleagues and students at Mountain Top News and Media and the Piarist School remember him as a passionate leader and educator who devoted himself to nurturing excellence and integrity in journalism and education.

He is deeply mourned by his loving wife, Heather McCoy; his cherished children, Tyler Lee Compton and Natalie Grace Compton; his mother, Loretta Tackett, and stepfather, Gary Tackett; as well as his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mark and Kathy McCoy. Sheldon was also the beloved brother of Kenneth Scott Tackett; Christy Dawn (Delmas) Johnson; and Brandi Carol (Dana) McCown. His legacy continues through his nieces—Brice Johnson, Becca Tackett, Emily Johnson, Haven Meade, and Averie McCown—and sister-in-law Daphne McCoy. The family also includes a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and cherished furbabies.

Sheldon was preceded in death by his father, Orville Compton; brother, Bryan David Tackett; paternal grandparents Teddy and Avalene (Mother) Compton; maternal grandparents Bob and Wanda Mullins; and grandmother Irene Moore. Their memories live on in the hearts of all who knew Sheldon.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, after 6 PM at the Lucas & Son Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 1 PM at the Lucas & Son Funeral Home. Special services will be held nightly at 7 PM

Sheldon Lee Compton’s life was a testament to perseverance, creativity, and kindness. He touched many lives, leaving a lasting legacy through his work, his music, and the love he shared with his family and friends. He will be remembered with great respect and affection by all who had the privilege of knowing him.