Nina Ann Allison

Nina Ann Allison, age 66, passed away on November 13, 2025, in Dallas, Texas. Nina was born on July 29, 1959, in Dallas, Texas, to Bernice Allison. She was lovingly raised by James and Dean Hackney of Arlington, Texas.

Growing up in Arlington, Nina attended Special Education classes in the public school system from Kindergarten through age 18. She later entered a series of group homes, all located in Arlington, where she stayed during the week and returned home on weekends. Her final group home became a long-term residence for nearly 15 years.

Nina was preceded in death by her parents, James and Dean Hackney.

She is survived by her sister, Janet Schaeffer, who assumed guardianship after James and Dean’s passing, and by her brother, Gary Kent, who became her guardian in mid-June 2024.

As her physical needs increased, Nina transitioned from group homes to nursing care. She first moved to a facility in Kaufman, Texas, and later to Westridge Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Lancaster, Texas, where she lived for her remaining years.

Nina found great joy in music—especially her collection of 45 records featuring Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash. She also had a lifelong fondness for the Dallas Cowboys. At Westridge, she made many friends, cherished weekly Wednesday phone calls with Janet and Gary, and built a legacy of memorable stories—both heartwarming and humorous.

Her laughter was unforgettable: a distinct, delightful cackle that made every joke funnier with each retelling. Her joys were many, her struggles real, and her spirit unmistakably her own. (And she truly hated tuna fish sandwiches.)

Nina will be deeply missed and remembered as gracious, tenderhearted, caring, and occasionally a bit sly—a beloved presence to her family, caregivers, therapists, and the staff of Westridge Nursing & Rehabilitation.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many staff members at Westridge who cared for Nina with compassion, patience, and love throughout her final years.

She will be remembered as someone who expressed her love freely and authentically, and from whom many learned valuable lessons about perseverance, kindness, and the simple joys of life.

We will carry you in our hearts, Nina. We will never forget you. We’ll see you soon.

Rest well, sister, daughter, and friend.