Paul R. Allison, 83, of Huntsville, AL, passed away at home on December 14, 2022, surrounded by his family. He was born in Oneonta, AL, graduated from Oneonta High School and married his high school sweetheart, Janice Sloan. He earned his undergraduate degree with a double major in Mathematics and Chemistry from Jacksonville State University and later earned a Master’s degree from the University of Alabama. Paul recognized early on that education and hard work would be his keys to success. He began his career at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, (MSFC), Huntsville, in 1961. He also worked for Computer Sciences Corporation, and for the US Government Offices of Personnel Management. Returning to NASA and MSFC in 1986, Paul ultimately served as Chief Information Officer (CIO) developing MSFC’s overall Information Technology (IT) strategy and building MSFC’s IT security and procurement policies. Paul received NASA’s Exceptional Service Medal, Silver Snoopy Award, MSFC’s Director’s Commendation and other awards. Paul took great pride in his work at NASA through the years and the role of MSFC in successfully launching Apollo 11 and placing the first man on the moon.
In addition to his career, Paul was an adjunct professor in Computer Science at Mercer University, Macon, GA, and Athens State University, Athens, AL. Paul retired from NASA in 2000 and continued teaching at Athens State for a number of years. Following that he was a consultant to several tech companies.
Paul and Janice found a church home wherever they lived. Paul was ordained as deacon in 1966 at University Baptist Church, Huntsville, AL. He had a servant heart at every church he belonged to. At First Baptist Church, Huntsville, Paul served as Sunday School director, church treasurer, on other committees and was a church council member. His greatest joy was as a Sunday School teacher. Bible study was a part of his daily life and he enjoyed sharing this each Sunday.
Paul’s interests included cheering on the Crimson Tide, playing golf, Bible study, and enjoying his grandchildren whatever sport or activity they were involved in. For more that 10 years, Paul coached youth sports through the City of Huntsville Little League and the YMCA making a lasting impression on many young lives. Paul taught more than the fundamentals of each sport. Paul had a keen sense of humor and a broad smile which put people at ease and endeared him to everyone he met. He was a colorful storyteller with a contagious laugh.
Parents, Bennett Allison and Gladys Allison Russell; sister, Wanda Allison, and son, Daniel Paul Allison, preceded Paul in death. Paul is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Janice Sloan Allison; daughters, Robin Allison Collins (husband, Alan) and Delia Allison Copeland (husband, Pat); grandchildren, Ben, Matthew, and Laura Copeland. His nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends are left to cherish memories of him.
Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at First Baptist Church Chapel. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Travis Collins officiating. Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. at Daileys Chapel Cemetery in Rosa, AL.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Mission Fund.
