William "Bill" Alliston's Obituary
William “Bill” Alliston, age 78, passed away Thursday, March 3, 2022, in Rogers, Arkansas due to a quick onset of pneumonia and other heart-related complications. He was born December 4, 1943, in Jonesboro, Arkansas to Donald Alliston and Dixie Alliston Bowen. He is preceded in death by his parents; his partner of 17 years, Kevin Silvey; his grandson, Nicholas Alliston; and his beloved aunt, Gladys Sembell.
A graduate of Valley View High School, Bill earned a BA in Biology from Arkansas State University. Having worked as an educator in Augusta, Arkansas, a product developer for Redken Laboratories in Los Angeles and an owner of a State Beauty Supply store, Bill will best be remembered as an acclaimed hairstylist, owning several salons in Jonesboro and St. Louis throughout his career. He formed many special bonds with his colleagues and valued clients who still rave about how amazing he was at his craft. Bill was a man of many talents. He had a knack for interior design and always took pride in the eclectic styles and environments he created. He was a talented cook and enjoyed hosting the most amazing dinner parties for the people he loved. Bill was a great storyteller, loved to laugh, and had a giving and generous heart. He will be missed deeply by everyone who knew him.
Thirteen years after a stroke slowed him down, Bill continued to enjoy visits with family and friends, good meals, movies and sports on TV and visits to the local salon. Fiercely determined, he remained resilient and committed to his routines and independent living up until the final week of his life.
Bill is survived by his children, Allison Alliston McElroy and husband Duane of Rogers, and Nathan Alliston and wife Connie of Jonesboro; his dear friend and former wife, Donna Alliston; grandchildren, Patrick Alliston, Cooper and Barret McElroy; great-grandchildren, Aiden and Liam Alliston; sister, Mary Don Leonard; and many extended family and friends.
A series of gatherings will take place in Rogers, Jonesboro and St. Louis over the coming weeks (details to come). Cremation arrangements have been entrusted under the direction of Nelson-Berna Funeral Home of Rogers.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Benton County Senior Center-Meals on Wheels, 3501 SE L Street, Bentonville, AR 72712 https://www.aaanwar.org/locations/detail/1412, Lifeline of Northwest Arkansas, 810 NW 7th St., Bentonville, AR 72712 www.lifelineofnwa.com, Open Avenues, P.O. Box 908, Rogers, AR 72757-0908 www.openavenues.org, or to the charity of your choice.
To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com
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