Judy Allison, wife of NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison, passed away on December 18th, 2015, at the age of 74. This article provides information regarding her funeral services and reflects on her life and contributions to the NASCAR community.
Judy Allison’s passing followed complications from a surgery at Iredell Memorial Hospital in Statesville. She was surrounded by loved ones, including her husband Bobby, daughters Bonnie Farr and Carrie Hewitt, grandson Robbie Allison, and brother-in-law Donnie Allison and his wife, Pat. Married for 55 years, Judy was a central figure in the Allison family, providing unwavering support to Bobby and their sons, Davey and Clifford, who both tragically predeceased her. Clifford died in a racing accident at Michigan International Speedway in 1992, and Davey perished in a helicopter crash at Talladega Superspeedway in 1993.
The funeral services for Judy Allison were held on December 28th, 2015, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Bessemer, Alabama. Visitation began at 10:30 a.m., followed by a mass at noon. She was laid to rest at Highland Memorial Gardens in Bessemer. The services provided an opportunity for the NASCAR community and friends to mourn the loss of a beloved figure.
Beyond her immediate family, Judy was known for her warmth and generosity. WBRC FOX6 Sports Director Rick Karle remembers Judy’s hospitality, recalling how she frequently invited media members to share meals with drivers before races at Talladega Superspeedway. This act of kindness exemplified her welcoming spirit and the strong sense of community she fostered within NASCAR.
NASCAR released a statement expressing their condolences: “NASCAR extends its condolences to the friends and family of Judy Allison…Judy, the matriarch of a cornerstone NASCAR family, provided the foundation for the careers of a legendary husband and two sons…Her love extended well beyond her own family, as many in the NASCAR family leaned upon Judy for support and compassion…We are deeply saddened by the loss of a true friend, and a woman who has given much to our sport.” This sentiment reflects the profound impact Judy had on the racing world. She was more than just the wife of a racing legend; she was a pillar of strength and support for the entire NASCAR community.
The passing of Judy Allison marked a significant loss for the Allison family and the NASCAR community. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, whose memory continues to be cherished by those whose lives she touched. Her legacy extends beyond the racetrack, reminding us of the importance of family, compassion, and community.
