PIERRE, SD – It is with profound love and deep sadness that we announce the passing of Valerie Jean Allison, 87, of Pierre, South Dakota.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Pierre, with visitation for one hour prior. Graveside services will follow at 12:15pm at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Blunt, SD. The funeral can be viewed at www.isburgfuneralchapels.com

Valerie passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of grace, resilience, and unconditional love.

Valerie was born on July 3, 1938, in Long Beach, California, to Lawrence and Agnes (Parsley) Grant.

Valerie and her husband Richard were united in marriage in 1956 at St. Barnabas Catholic Church in Long Beach, California. Together they built a beautiful life and raised three children: Mark, John, and Sandra.

Valerie and Richard operated a Winchell’s Donut Shop in Long Beach, California.

In 1972, the family moved to Pierre, South Dakota, where they purchased and successfully ran the Burger Queen Drive-In for ten years. They later returned to the donut business, owning and operating the World of Donuts for another ten years.

To many of their teenage employees, Valerie and Richard were like second parents-offering guidance, support, and kindness that extended far beyond the workplace.

Valerie also worked for many years in housekeeping at St. Mary’s Hospital and at Parkwood Apartments, where she formed many cherished friendships with residents.

Beyond her careers, Valerie maintained a special place in the hearts of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She shared a beautiful connection with them, whether they lived close by or at a distance.

Valerie was known as the “Queen of Shanghai” for her love of the card game Shanghai. She enjoyed playing it with family and friends, and the game has become a cherished family tradition passed down through generations.

Music brought Valerie great joy, and she would occasionally show off her playful dance moves with a big smile.

Valerie was a lifelong, devoted Dodgers fan. She cherished watching every game, and her love for the team lit up her days.

Valerie lived her faith with quiet grace, always offering her prayers for those in need.

Valerie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Richard Allison, her brother Dick Grant, and her sisters Lorelei Allison and Donna Larson.

 

She is survived by her children:

Mark Allison,

John (Laurie) Allison,

Sandra (Victor) Wood;

her grandchildren:

Matthew (Amanda) Allison,

Joshua (Kristie) Allison,

Kelli (Zac) Massa,

Kyle Koepke,

Brooke Allison,

Ben Schaap,

Megan Schaap,

Erin (Kristi) Wood,

Courtney (Jared) King,

along with 15 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

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