Bobby Allison, a legendary NASCAR driver and founding member of the 'Alabama Gang,' was married to Judy Allison from 1960 until her passing in 2015. Together, they had four children: Davey, Clifford, Bonnie, and Carrie. The Allison family endured both remarkable triumphs and unimaginable tragedies, as two of Bobby and Judy's sons, Davey and Clifford, tragically lost their lives in racing-related accidents.
Judy Allison and Her Life with Bobby
Judy and Bobby married in 1960 and shared 55 years together, supporting each other through the highs and lows of NASCAR fame. Judy was by Bobby’s side throughout his illustrious racing career, helping him manage life as a public figure and racing legend. However, their lives took a tragic turn after Bobby's near-fatal crash in 1988, which marked the end of his driving career.
In 1992, their second son, Clifford, died in a car crash during a practice session for the Busch Series at Michigan International Speedway. Less than a year later, in 1993, their oldest son, Davey, died in a helicopter crash in Talladega. The compounded grief of losing two sons placed a significant strain on their marriage, leading to a divorce in 1996. However, four years later, they reconnected at a family wedding and remarried, remaining together until Judy's death in 2015 due to complications from surgery.
Who Were Davey and Clifford Allison?
Both Davey and Clifford followed in their father’s footsteps, pursuing careers in NASCAR racing. Born in 1961, Davey Allison was known for driving the iconic No. 28 Texaco-Havoline Ford. His promising career was tragically cut short at the age of 32 when he died in a helicopter crash in Birmingham, Alabama.
Clifford Allison, the younger of the two brothers, also aspired to make a name for himself in racing. He was competing in the NASCAR Busch Series when he tragically died on August 13, 1992, in a practice session crash at Michigan International Speedway.
Bobby Allison’s Legacy
Bobby Allison is remembered as one of NASCAR’s most celebrated drivers, known for his resilience and impact on the sport. Despite the personal tragedies he endured, including the loss of his sons and his career-ending accident, he has remained a prominent figure in NASCAR history. Bobby passed away on Saturday at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy that highlights both his contributions to racing and his remarkable strength in the face of personal loss.
