Emily Compton

Emily Compton, a cherished resident of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, at the Catholic Care Center following a long and courageous battle with illness. Born on July 16, 1957, in Olathe, Kansas, Emily was a beacon of light and love throughout her life, touching the hearts of everyone she met.

Raised in Olathe, Emily was a bright student who graduated from Olathe North Senior High School before pursuing higher education. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Kansas State University and later achieved a Master’s in Public Administration from Wichita State University in 1985. Her commitment to education and excellence was evident from a young age when she began working at age 13 at the Olathe Public Library, under the guidance of her father.

Emily’s career blossomed at Goodwill Industries, where she devoted 35 years of her life. Rising through the ranks with grace and dedication, she served at Goodwill headquarters including South Carolina and Texas before becoming President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Kansas from 2005 until her retirement in 2020. In Kansas she forged innovative partnerships such as NexStep Alliance with WSU Tech and the Goodwill Re-Entry program. Her leadership was defined by her favorite quote, “Leadership begins with the person who cares the most.” Emily was a passionate advocate for empowering individuals through job training and employment opportunities, and her innovative spirit left an indelible mark on the non-profit community. In 2014, she received a Woman in Business award from the Wichita Business Journal.  In 2014, Emily served as Chair of the Board of Wichita Nonprofit Chamber of Services and in 2016, she was selected as Board President of Wichita Independent Business Association.

Outside of her professional achievements, Emily was an active member of the Central Community Church, where her faith and compassion were ever present. Her love for dogs was well-known and, in her younger years, she found joy in agility training.

Emily was predeceased by her loving parents, Edwin T. and Billie B. Compton, and her sister Ann, whose memory she cherished deeply. She is survived by her beloved brother, Tom Compton, who encouraged her through life’s many adventures; and her nephew and niece, James and Katherine.

In remembrance of Emily’s extraordinary life and dedication to helping others, the family kindly suggests that memorial contributions be made to Goodwill Industries of Kansas. Her legacy of service, kindness, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Emily’s life was a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. She will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. May her memory forever be a blessing and a guide to those who follow in her footsteps.

Emily’s Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Central Community Church. The funeral service will be live streamed through the church’s website.

Emily will be buried next to her parents at Oak Hill Cemetery, Carrollton, MO.

A memorial has been established with Central Community Church, 6100 W. Maple St., Wichita, KS 67209.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.

Obituary written by Gayle Goetz