Saltville, Va.

Roger Alan Allison, 78, of Saltville, passed away at his home on February 22, 2025. He was the son of the late Lawrence and Ola Allison. A lifelong observer of the world, Roger found solace in the hum of a newsroom, the amenity of a sideline, and the rhythm of a basketball bouncing on the hardwood.

Roger graduated from R. B. Worthy High School, Emory & Henry College, and from The University of Virginia in 1973 with a master's in education. After a short stint teaching Latin, he spent decades doing what he loved: writing sports articles (and an occasional news article) for The Saltville Progress. There, he covered high school athletics with a dedication that never wavered. He was a fixture on the sidelines, notebook-in-hand, documenting games with meticulous detail. His words immortalized last-second shots, hard-fought wins, and heartbreaking losses for generations of readers.

An introvert by nature, Roger preferred the company of his typewriter to large crowds. Those who knew him understood that his quiet demeanor hid a sharp wit and a deep well of knowledge. Roger loved his hometown and was well-versed in its history. He served two terms on the Saltville Town Council. He also enjoyed genealogy, turning family stories into global adventures. He found joy in piecing together the puzzle of his heritage.

Roger was preceded in death by his brothers: Carlis, Bobby, and Ron and by his niece, Rona. He is survived by sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and the athletes who unknowingly became a part of his life's work. In his memory, the pages of the local newspaper will continue to turn, and NHS's games will go on–just as he would've wanted.

As Roger loathed them, there will be no formal services. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Northwood HS Athletics. Those who knew him–or simply read his stories–are encouraged to attend a sporting event, sit quietly in the stands and appreciate the game for what it is: a story unfolding in real time.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Roger Alan Allison.