VERNON HENRY ALLISON, better known as "Punkin", 67, gained his wings on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2021, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born July 29, 1953, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of James and Ruby Allison. Punkin graduated from Fort Wayne's Central High School and Ivy Tech Community College. He was a member of Summit Church and attended Broadway Christian Church. He was employed by Fort Wayne Community Schools and Lincoln Financial Group before his health began to fail. Punkin was gifted with a natural born talent as an artist. His advanced quick sketch skills were evident very early in his childhood. Loved and adored by his family, his warm and engaging personality endeared him to nearly everyone. His excitement and pride for the people of his native Fort Wayne, added to his popularity. He was quite the social butterfly. Punkin was a big hit on the grill with his farmer friends, vending their food at area fairs and festivals. His involvement in the city's basketball leagues began over 20 years ago as a top assistant in Walter Jordan's Future Stars basketball league. He was a favorite at the University of Saint Francis' basketball scorer's table. Despite his ill health, many admired and appreciated his energy. Punkin leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Edgnee Nicole Hathaway; grandchildren, Marquis and Key'osha Hathaway; great-grandchildren, Malaysia and Anthony Hathaway; sisters, Jeanette (Lucius) Bearfield, Veronica Montgomery of Indianapolis, his twin Vadie (Darrell) Strozier of Detroit, Ruby Allison, Mary (Warren) Thomas of Vicksburg Miss., and Cheryle (Gary) Underwood; brothers, James Allison Jr. of Middletown, R.I., Roland Allison, Darrell and Robert Allison, both of San Diego; aunts, Katie Daniels of Indianapolis and Evelyn Sims of Richardson, Texas; special cousins, Debra Simmons of Richardson, Texas, Margaret Belcher and Evelyn Whitfield; special friend, Walter Jordan of Atlanta; plus numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Punkin was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Joann M. Turner. Visitation is from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, at Ellis Funeral Home, 1021 E. Lewis St. Due to COVID restrictions, a private family service will be held Friday. Donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation in Vernon's name.