Julie Riggs Allison

Julie Dean Riggs Allison Parrott, 86, of Durham, North Carolina passed away at home surrounded by her family on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. She was born in Durham on October 5, 1938, to the late Ervin and Lillian Riggs.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers, Buck Riggs, Quinton Riggs, Robert Riggs and Donald Riggs and her sister, Edna Riggs Tippett.

Julie was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished "Nanny," sister, aunt, and loyal friend. She deeply loved and treasured her family, finding joy in their presence and strength through her faith in God.

She was married to Wayne F. Allison for 30 years before his passing on May 31, 1989. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and shared values.

Julie was a dedicated and hardworking woman. She served at Watts Hospital and later at Blue Cross Blue Shield, where she worked faithfully for 33 years. Even after retirement, her passion for helping others led her to work part-time with Home Instead, continuing to care for those in need.

Julie enjoyed the simple, beautiful things in life—family gatherings, nature, and time with her grandchildren. She loved working in her flowers, feeding and watching birds, and taking peaceful walks. One of her favorite pastimes was preparing picnic baskets for road trips to the mountains. Her home was always spotless and welcoming, filled with the delicious aromas of her home cooking—because if you visited, she made sure you had plenty to eat.

She found happiness in everyday pleasures like word search books, Jeopardy each evening, reading, and doing puzzles or playing games with her grandchildren. A passionate reader, she always had a book in hand and shared that love through her family’s reading circle. Julie began each day grounded in her faith, reading Mornings with Jesus and Our Daily Bread devotionals. Her strength and comfort came from her unwavering belief in the Lord, even during her courageous battle with COPD and cancer.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Lauren, Gina, and Ashley at Duke Hospice for their kind and compassionate care during Julie’s final days.

Julie’s life was a beautiful example of grace, strength, and unconditional love. She will be missed deeply and remembered always.

Julie is survived by her daughter, Regina Allison Norwood; brother, Rudy Riggs (Jim); sister, Jean Walker (Albert); grandchildren, Alexis Johnson (Wesley) and Chandler Norwood; great grandchildren, Bristol, Jase and Lainey and other loving family members and friends.

A Graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Woodlawn Memorial Park where she will be interred. Rev. Hugh O’Shields will officiate.

Flowers are acceptable.