Willard Wayne Allison, known affectionately by friends and family as Wayne, passed away on August 30, 2025, at the age of 84 in Cushing, Oklahoma, after a valiant battle with lung cancer. Born on February 28, 1941, in Ravenden Springs, Arkansas, Wayne was a man whose life was marked by an unwavering commitment to his loved ones, his community, and his faith.
Wayne was a 1959 graduate of Dalton High School in Dalton, Arkansas. Shortly after, he moved to Oklahoma to begin what would become a distinguished career in construction. He worked for Cushing Plumbing and served as a dedicated firefighter for the Cushing Fire Department from 1964 to 1972. Wayne then operated his own backhoe business until transitioning to the pipeline industry, where he worked for Skelly Pipeline and its successors until his retirement on January 1, 2000.
A man of service, Wayne proudly served in the Oklahoma National Guard for six years, including a six-month active-duty stint. His commitment to community safety continued as he volunteered with the Agra Fire Department, eventually serving as Fire Chief until his retirement in 2001. Wayne was also a member of the Oklahoma Retired Firefighters Association, a charter member of the Cushing Drumright Elks Lodge, and a devoted member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Cushing.
On February 8, 1963, Wayne married the love of his life, Carolyn Ann Dennis, at the First Christian Church in Cushing. Together, they raised two children, Tony Allison and Susan Allison Koenig, and enjoyed the blessings of family life with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Wayne’s passion for restoring old cars was well-known, particularly his cherished 1950 Ford 2-Door Coupe and 1956 Ford Customline Victoria. He also found joy in hunting, fishing, working on the farm, and sharing stories and laughter with his friends in Agra.
Willard “Wayne” Allison was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Hubert, William, and Ray Allison; and his sisters Geneva Allison Looney, Beatrice Allison Odom, Joye Allison Obarts, Melveda Allison Murray, and Iva Mae Allison Witcher. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Carolyn Allison; children Tony Allison and Susan (Kenny) Koenig; granddaughter Kirsten Kitchen (fiancé Jackson Burch); grandson Brice Koenig; great-grandsons Liam and Mylo Queton; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Wayne will be remembered as a loving husband, a friendly neighbor, a generous friend, and a man who gave selflessly to his community. His legacy of kindness, service, and devotion to his family will continue to inspire all who knew him. Wayne’s life was a testament to the enduring power of love and the impact one person can have on the world around them. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
Pallbearers: Jimmy Wayne Murray, Mike Howard, Joe Selcer, Hubert Boley, Doug Baker and Ray Boyles.
Honorary Pallbearers: Melvin Selcer, Jim Walters, Jeff Schroff, Wayne Simpson and Carl Pugh.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Palmer Marler Funeral Home. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) with Pastor Jim Wilhelm officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Ripley, OK.
Condolences may be sent to the family via an online guestbook at www.palmermarlerfh.com.
