Breckenridge Texan

Kessa Compton, 71, of Cisco, Texas, passed away on August 12, 2026. A visitation will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026, at the Melton-Kitchens Chapel of Memories in Breckenridge, Texas, followed by a funeral service Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 11 a.m. with Patrick Frishe officiating.

Kessa was born on July 14, 1955, to Don Ross Compton and Marjorie Fay Cretsinger. A lifelong resident of Stephens County, Texas, she graduated from Breckenridge High School in 1973, where she played volleyball and was involved with stock showing. She later attended Cisco College.

Early in her working years, Kessa spent many days helping Billy Sam Fambro on the ranch, gathering and working cattle, and also worked at the Gulf gas station. She went on to dedicate many years of her career to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), retiring in 2021.

Kessa had a deep love for the outdoors and country life. In her younger years, she could often be found atop a horse, exploring the land and enjoying the freedom of the outdoors. She and her mother spent many days hunting rattlesnakes and searching for arrowheads together. She loved horses, ranching, fishing, and simply being outdoors, always finding something new to discover. That love for the Western way of life carried through to her family, as she spent countless days hauling her children to rodeos and team ropings, proudly supporting them every step of the way.

Kessa also loved to dance. Throughout her life, she could often be found at a dance hall surrounded by friends, enjoying good music, good company, and a good time. Dancing was one of the many ways she embraced life, and she cherished the friendships and memories made along the way. She had an adventurous spirit and found joy in the simple pleasures of life and the country she called home.

Kessa was known for her generous heart and her willingness to help others. Whenever someone in her community was in need, she was there to lend a hand. During local wildfires, she could often be found caring for firefighters, bringing them food, water, and supplies to make sure they had what they needed. Whether a family was facing the loss of a loved one, a fire, or any other hardship, Kessa was willing to step in and help. She never hesitated to give her time, her resources, or her heart to those who needed it.

Many who knew Kessa would say she was one of the toughest people they ever met — a woman with grit, determination, and a strength that carried her through whatever life put in her path.

Kessa is survived by her son, Brandon Groene; her daughter, Kenna Rainey, and son-in-law, Matthew; her grandchildren, Brenna Groene and Levi Rainey; and many cousins and friends who loved her dearly. She will be lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and the many people whose lives she touched through her kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Don and Marjorie; her grandparents; and her brother, Ben Compton; and many beloved friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your local volunteer fire department or the Battle Creek Cemetery Association, causes that reflect Kessa’s lifelong commitment to helping others and caring for her community.

Condolences can be left at meltonkitchens.com.