Willard L. Allison

Willard L. Allison, 72, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., passed away Sunday, March 2, 2014, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. Mr. Allison was born March 12, 1941 in Portageville, Mo., to the late James and Lois (Dooley)Allison. On August 12, 1961 he married Janice (Perry) Allison, in Portage, Indiana. She survives. Also surviving include his children, Rick and Shirley Allison, and Sondra and Randy Persons all of Poplar Bluff; seven grandchildren, Derick, David, Daniel, Devin, Alli, Andrew and Samuel all of Poplar Bluff; sisters Dora Armor (Dean) of Broseley and Doris Modonas of Davidson, Mi.; brothers, Bud Allison (Chestine) of Fisk, and Travis Allison of Poplar Bluff; and one sister-in- law; Barbara Allison of Portage, In. He was also preceded in death by two daughters, Benita and Deborah Allison; brothers, Arley and Bill Allison, as well as a sister, Juanita Napier. Mr. Allison was a local contractor, developer and business owner. He owned and operated Allison Construction, Oakdale Care Center, and various other commercial developments. He attended the Palace of Praise Church in Poplar Bluff. Willard was passionate about his family and his work. He worked tirelessly, with enthusiasm, joy and integrity. He cherished his role as a provider and mentor. He adored his loving wife of 53 years, and he believed the world revolved around his children and grandchildren. Visitation will be held from 6-9 p.m. Friday March 7, 2014, at the Palace of Praise Church, 1400 Herschel Bess Blvd., Poplar Bluff . Funeral service will begin at 11a.m. Saturday, March 8, 2014, at the Palace of Praise Church, with Bishop Kent Miller officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the Allison family requests donations be made to Haven House, P.O. Box 4875, Poplar Bluff, Mo. 63902 or Ronald McDonald House, 3450 Park Ave., St. Louis, Mo. 63104 Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home, Poplar Bluff, in charge of arrangements.