Buddy Eugene Allison

Buddy Eugene Allison, 85, of Hiawassee, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 27, 2026, at Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

Buddy was born on January 23, 1941, in White County, Georgia, to the late Walter and Cora Allison. After proudly serving his country for two years in the United States Army, Buddy became a self-educated civil engineer and dedicated more than 25 years of diligent service to the State of Georgia. Following his retirement, he spent another 25 years as the caretaker of Chestnut Valley Farm, where his faithful work and care to cultivate the natural beauty of the property were enjoyed and appreciated by many.

A devoted follower of Christ, Buddy's life was defined by a deep and daily commitment to the Word of God. He was a faithful member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church for decades, where he served as a deacon. He was a gifted artist who found joy in drawing and painting, creating works that reflected his appreciation for God's creation. Additionally, Buddy was a Freemason and a pillar of the Hiawassee River Community.

More than any accomplishment, Buddy will be remembered for his unwavering love for the Lord and for his family. After the passing of his last surviving sibling in 2006, "Uncle Buddy" became much more to the Allison nieces and nephews; he was a father figure, mentor, encourager, and preacher. His home was always open, his advice was always sincere, and his heart was always full of love. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, wisdom, and steadfast devotion, and though his humble spirit, generous heart, and sharp wit will be deeply missed, the example he set through a life of faithful service to God and others will endure for generations to come.

Buddy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Allison; his parents, Walter and Cora Allison; his brothers, Hoyt (Mildred) Allison and Claude (Louise) Allison; and his sisters, Beatrice (Arnold) Tallant, and Janelle (Sam) Adams.

He is survived by his daughter, Karon (Chal) Davis; his son, Leo (Lynne) Abernathy; his grandsons, Ryan (Katelin) Davis and Ricky Davis; his granddaughters, Amber (Contrel) Neal and Kerri Abernathy; ten great-grandchildren; and sisters-in-law Nell Sloan, Lillian Mauldin, and Margie Mauldin. Buddy also leaves numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will cherish his memory.

Those who knew and loved Buddy celebrate a life well lived and find comfort in the promise of Scripture: "To be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:8). They also celebrate the joyful reunion he undoubtedly experienced with his beloved Betty and with the Savior whom he faithfully served throughout his life.

In his later years, Buddy cherished this truth from the Word of God, “Nevertheless I am continually with thee: Thou hast holden me by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, And afterward receive me to glory”. (Psalm 73:23-24 KJV).

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Hiawassee, Georgia. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Samaritan's Purse in Buddy's honor.