Davey Allison, a key member of NASCAR’s Alabama Gang, was a talented and dedicated driver. He was married to Liz Allison before his tragic death in 1993, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire fans and fellow drivers alike.
David Carl Allison (February 25, 1961 – July 13, 1993) was a prominent NASCAR driver who earned 19 Cup Series wins, including the 1992 Daytona 500.
He gained fame driving the No. 28 Texaco-Havoline Ford for Robert Yates Racing.
He debuted in the NASCAR Cup Series in 1985 and quickly gained recognition as a top driver.
Over his career, he secured 19 wins, including the 1992 Daytona 500 and three Winston 500 victories.
Named 1987 Winston Cup Series Rookie of the Year, Allison consistently competed at a high level, finishing third in the standings in 1991 and 1992.
He also won the 1993 IROC Championship posthumously.
NASCAR honored him as one of its 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998 and inducted him into the Hall of Fame in 2019.
A helicopter crash in 1993 tragically ended his promising career.
Davey Allison Was First Married to Deborah Lynne Headley Before Marrying His Second Wife, Liz Allison, in 1989
Davey Allison, the renowned NASCAR driver, had two significant relationships, each leaving a lasting impact on his legacy.
His first marriage was to Deborah Lynne Headley, whom he met in 1982.
The couple dated for two years before marrying on August 3, 1984.
Their relationship lasted only three years, ending in divorce in 1988.
Heading out on the town. pic.twitter.com/JjDXv8oTwv
— Liz Allison (@Lizallison28) April 3, 2021
However, it was his second marriage to Liz Allison, a relationship that would define his legacy, that truly captured the hearts of fans.
Liz, who had initially worked in NASCAR media, met Davey in the early 1980s when they were both part of the racing scene.
Their connection blossomed, and they married in 1989.
They shared a love story filled with mutual respect, a passion for racing, and a commitment to family.
It’s so hard to believe that Davey would be 61 today. In our hearts, he will always be 32 years old. Ironic how those who leave us way too early, stay the age they were when we lost them. May we celebrate the beautiful life created on this day in 1961. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/bUfCvXr6cd
— Liz Allison (@Lizallison28) February 25, 2022
Liz supported Davey’s career as a driver while raising their two children.
Tragically, Davey died in a helicopter crash in 1993, cutting their time together.
Liz, devastated by the loss, transformed her grief into a meaningful career in motorsports media.
She became an influential voice in NASCAR, honoring her late husband’s legacy while continuing to raise their children with love and support.
Davey’s little corner @NorthTurn ❤️ pic.twitter.com/fCuQihVvSQ
— Liz Allison (@Lizallison28) February 16, 2019
Liz’s resilience and deep connection to Davey’s memory have made her a cherished figure in motorsports.
Allison’s life was tragically brief, but his love for Deborah and Liz left a lasting legacy.
Liz moved to Nashville with their two children, Krista Marie and Robbie, starting a new chapter of her life.
On May 13, 2000, she married physical therapist Ryan Hackett, embracing a new path after the profound loss of her first husband.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Davey was the son of Bobby Allison, a NASCAR Hall of Famer and founding member of the famed “Alabama Gang.”
- Initially interested in football, Davey Allison pursued auto racing, building his first Chevy Nova with the “Peach Fuzz Gang.”
- Hueytown, Alabama, celebrates Davey Allison Day annually during Talladega’s spring race weekend.
