West Ohio Food Bank Mourns the Loss of Co-Founder Phil Compton

The Board and Staff of the West Ohio Food Bank (WOFB) would like to express our deepest sympathies on the passing of one of the food bank’s founders, Philip (Phil) Compton.    Phil was instrumental in creating the food bank in 1987, when it began as the Lima Area Food Bank in the basement of the United Methodist Church in Lima, Ohio.

Over the years Phil served as the Board President for WOFB, a board member, served on several committees, and was a mentor for leadership and staff alike.  Phil was also very involved in community events, serving as a Professor at Ohio Northern University, a pastor, a chaplain, and was a Jefferson Award recipient for his volunteerism over the years.

“I have known Phil since I started at the food bank in 2006. He has always been a wealth of knowledge, a terrific mentor, wonderful supporter and advocate for the food bank. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time,” said Tommie Harner, CEO of the West Ohio Food Bank.

Phil Compton, 82, passed away on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus surrounded by his family.

A memorial service will begin at 12:00 pm on Friday, January 24, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church, 301 North Main Street, Ada, Ohio 45810 with the Rev. Brandi Rigsby officiating. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Memorial contributions in Phil’s name may be made to the West Ohio Food Bank and/or the Mennonite Memorial Homes Benevolent Aid Fund.