E. Lavonia Allison

May 20, 1930 - January 7, 2025

Durham, NORTH CAROLINA - Dr. Allison, born on May 20, 1930, in Durham, NC, was the second daughter of Charles J. and Bernice Roberts Ingram. Inspired by her mother, Durham's first black registrar, Dr. Allison pursued excellence throughout her life. She graduated Salutatorian from Hillside High School and earned a BS in Physical Education from Hampton University, an MA in Health and Physical Education, and a D.Ed in Higher Education Administration from New York University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. She also studied at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In 1960, Dr. Allison received her North Carolina real estate broker's license.

Dr. Allison's career spanned education and community service. She taught health and physical education at James A. Whitted Junior High School and served as an Associate Professor at North Carolina Central University. Later, she directed the NC Health Careers Access Program, increasing the representation of African Americans and underserved populations in healthcare. Upon retirement, she became CEO of Dunbar Realty and Insurance Company, her family's business.

A tireless advocate for social justice, Dr. Allison made significant political contributions throughout her life. She served over 40 years with the Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People, becoming its first Chairwoman and holding leadership roles in various committees. She was also deeply involved in the Democratic Party, serving in numerous leadership positions and as a delegate to national conventions from 1972-2016.

Dr. Allison was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, F. V. "Pete" Allison, Jr. She leaves behind her children, K. Michele Allison-Davis (Curtis) and F. Vincent Allison, III, (Terri) and four grandchildren: Christopher (Elizabeth), Bryan, Curtis Davis Jr, and Melissa (Jason). Her legacy as a champion for justice, education, and healthcare lives on through her family and countless community contributions.

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Published by The News & Observer from Jan. 24 to Jan. 26, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for E. Allison

Sponsored by Burthey Funeral Service.

11 Entries

Betsy Y. Lay

February 7, 2025

Deepest Condolences,

Dear Michele and Vincent,

I am lost for words as I was just notified of your mother's transition. As you know my mother Betty W. Lay worked with your grandmother (Bo-Bo) for many years. (30+) Dr. Allison was like a sister to my mother until her transition (1988). I will never forget the conversation with you mother when Senator Barack Obama was US Senator representing Illinois and he gave that powerful speech at the Democratic Convention. Dr. Allison stated to me "He is going to be our next President", and she was right President Barack Obama 2008.
Dr. Alison was a beautiful person inside and out I will miss her.

Much love to both of you and four family from my family.

The Lay Family in New York
Betsy, Sean, Eric & Legend

Dr. Allan Gary Smith, Sr.

January 28, 2025

Praying for the Allison Family for God's grace to sustain them during their loss.

Luster James Crisp

January 26, 2025

You have always been a very Special Lady, it was a pleasure knowing you and Pete!

Rev. Curtis E. Gatewood

January 26, 2025

Dr. E. Lavonia Allison, one day I will meet you heaven. There, perhaps we will work together again, helping God to get some devils out of Heaven that may have slipped in.

Thanks for showing Durham and the nation how to consistently and brilliantly "Fight the Good Fight!"

Rest in peace and power!
Your civil rights student,
Rev. Curtis E. Gatewood

Nancy Love, MPA

January 25, 2025

Thank you for being my mentor, steering me to work in a capacity to help others. You helped me grow.

Dede Carney

January 25, 2025

What a powerhouse & awesome Lady! She did so much for for many for many decades! Loved her spirit, her smarts, & her service. She will truly be missed by ALL.

Yvonne Waiters-Dixon

January 25, 2025

Our sincerest condolences to the Allison family. May God strengthen and keep you in his care.

Tamara Best

January 24, 2025

To the family of Dr. E. Lavonia Allison,

Our deepest condolences to you at the passing of Dr. Allison.
Dr. Allison was a great treasure; she made Durham/Chapel Hill, North Carolina and the nation better places. Her endeavors were tireless as she lifted those around her. Thank you, Dr. Allison! We will miss you, but we know you are resting in the arms of Jesus.

Sincerely,

Joanne Jones Best and family

Diane Gallagher

January 24, 2025

As a teacher, I remember Dr. Lavonia Allison
and her commitment to children in DCS & DPS!
May she rest in powerful peace!

Dr. Estella Ingram-Levy

January 24, 2025

I was very saddened to have heard of the transition from Earth to Heaven of one of my favorite cousins, Dr. Lavonia Allison. She was truly a mentor to all of us who knew and loved her. I am going to miss the many conversations that we would always have about diversified topics. I would always remind her that I was the youngest granddaughter in the Ingram's family, and she was the great granddaughter. I am so sorry that I am unable to be with my family during its hour of bereavement, because of the inclimate weather here in Baltimore. Sending my heartfelt Condolences and Prayers to her immediate family in Durham. May she continues to rest in God's Eternal Paradise.
Love you forever,
Dr. Estella Ingram-Levy
Baltimore, MD

bill anderson

January 24, 2025

Dr. Allison was a great woman, always smiling, never wavering!

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