Allison Claire McVadon

Allison Claire Cook McVadon, aged 88, passed away on October 17, 2026. Born on August 4, 1938, she was the cherished and only child of the late Dr. Henry Grady Cook and Charlotte Lewis Cook, RN, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Mrs. McVadon is survived by her devoted husband of sixty-six years, Milner Wayne McVadon; her three loving daughters, Charlotte McVadon Tompkins, Allison (Trey) Williamson, and Susan (Tuck) Welch; her grandchildren, including Kelley Tompkins, Lauren (Danny) Harrsch, Andrew Tompkins, Carter (Hollyn) Williamson, Tyler (Keighley) Williamson, Kaitlyn Williamson, Tanner (Sarah) Welch, and Camryn Welch, who affectionately knew her as "Grammie"; and her precious great-grandchildren, Duke (Lauren and Danny) and Bennett (Tyler and Keighley).

A woman of remarkable intellect and grace, Claire graduated on May 31, 1960, from Sophie Newcomb College of Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana, earning a degree in Zoology and achieving the distinguished honor of Phi Beta Kappa. Her life changed forever in February 1957 when she went on a blind date with Wayne McVadon. A true beauty, she captivated him the moment they met while wearing a memorable black lace knee-length formal dress. She and Wayne were united in holy matrimony on June 3, 1960, beginning a devoted partnership that lasted until her passing.

As the beloved matriarch of her family, Claire was widely known, admired, and deeply respected. Above all else, her primary passion was her family. Claire loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren fiercely and unconditionally. She was not merely a spectator in their lives, but an active, constant, and unwavering presence—cheering at every event, celebrating every milestone, offering wise counsel, and nurturing them with endless devotion. Beyond her role at the heart of her family, she was a savvy business owner and a wonderful Cajun chef. Her collegiate legacy lived on as a proud Newcomb Chi Omega, sharing a special bond with her LSU Chi O daughters and granddaughters. She leaves behind a profound legacy of intelligence, warmth, and fiercely loyal love that will forever be treasured by all who knew her.

A reception celebrating Claire’s life will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Parish Hall at First United Methodist Church, 930 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. Family and friends are warmly invited to drop in and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Claire’s honor to Alzheimer's Services of the Capital Area.