Suzanne Elizabeth Allison, passed away on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at Laclede Groves in St. Louis, Missouri, after a brief illness. She was born in July 1938, in St. Louis, to John and Vera Tipton.
Suzanne, a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, was preceded in death by her husband Larry and is survived by her daughter, Lisa; her son, Tom, and daughter-in-law, Layla Hourani; her son, Jeff, and daughter-in-law Wendy; her grandchildren, Jessica and James; her sister, Lynda Riddlesperger; and her brother, John Tipton.
After graduating from Ferguson High School, Suzanne furthered her education at Southwest Missouri State College, where she met her soulmate, Thomas ‘Larry’ Allison. The two were married on March 5, 1960, in St. Louis.
In 1968, the family returned to St. Louis when Larry became the minister at Hanley Road Baptist Church in Clayton. Suzanne embraced her role as a minister’s wife, passionately supporting and guiding the congregation. In 1975, the family settled in Hutchinson, Kansas, where they discovered a strong sense of community and belonging.
Suzanne was a lifelong learner and an advocate for education. Driven by her passion for teaching, she returned to school and earned a master’s degree in special education from Wichita State University, a milestone that brought her immense joy. For the next 25 years, Suzanne dedicated herself to teaching students with learning disabilities at Liberty Middle School in Hutchinson, leaving an enduring impact on numerous lives.
Tragedy struck Suzanne’s life when her beloved husband, Larry passed away in October 1999. Despite this loss, Suzanne found solace and strength in her family, her faith, and her friends.
During her retirement years, Suzanne immersed herself in volunteer work, indulged in her love of reading, learning, and cherished precious moments with her loved ones. She served as an Elder at Park Place Christian Church and enjoyed regular gatherings of her friends for coffee and Tai Chi. Her grandchildren brought her great joy, and she continued a life-long journey of personal growth and understanding. Suzanne’s compassion extended beyond her personal life as she selflessly dedicated her time to volunteering, positively impacting the lives of others.
Suzanne Elizabeth Allison leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to education. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and community will be dearly missed. May her soul find eternal peace as her spirit lives on in the hearts of all those whose lives she touched.
As per Suzanne’s wishes, a small service will be held in St. Louis. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Suzanne’s memory to Habitat for Humanity.
Suzanne was a dear friend. I shall always remember the birthdays that we celebrated together. Her dedication to her church was obvious as served in various ministries. I have missed her ever since she moved back home. I will recall the many good times and cherish the memories. Sending my deepest condolences to all.
Suzanne, lovely lady, good friend, and my sister-in-law. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends; my love to Lisa, Tom, and Jeff.
Suzanne was a powerful positive to those students whose lives she touched as a teacher. She was also a wonderful influence to all she met, her faith and love of God spoke volumes, with or wothout words.
There are no adequate words to express the deep loss felt of Suzanne’s passing at this time. She (as well as Larry and the whole family) became so instrumental in my life and growth for decades. I remain thankful for so many numerous times together, as I was nurtured by their welcoming and inclusiveness. I will miss dearly our faith journey together, our shared experiences of all sorts, and just plain fun (including our 6 ft. apart conversations in her garage during covid!).
Suzanne’s presence will always remain in my cherished memories and in going forward. May peace ease the loss for her family and such a wide circle of caring friends.
Suzanne’s family has done a beautiful job putting into words just how wonderful a person she was. I will miss her terribly in my
life but wonderful memories of our times together will be with me forever. My heart goes out to Lisa, Tom, Jeff and all her family who cherished her and will miss her in their lives.
Suzanne was a valued part of our chapter of DKG in Hutchinson. She was always upbeat in the face of adversity, smiling and positive. She will be missed, Condolences to her family.
Suzanne and I met as members of Nu Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma in Hutchinson. Her beautiful smile and warm, loving spirit made her a valuable part of our group. She will be missed.
Thank you, Suzanne, for your example, guidance, and encouragement to follow you into special education teaching.