He is known for his role in the Anglican realignment, which led to his participation in the controversial consecration in 2000 of two bishops opposed to the blessing of same-sex unions by the Episcopal Church, that took place in Singapore. He resides in Georgetown, South Carolina, where he serves as a retired bishop of the Anglican Diocese of South Carolina in the Anglican Church in North America since 2017.

Born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, Bishop Allison attended the University of the South and, after having his studies briefly interrupted by service in the United States Army during World War II. After World War II, he was discharged with the rank of Master Sergeant. He received a bachelor of arts degree in 1949. He then studied at Virginia Theological Seminary, from which he graduated with a Bachelor of Divinity degree in 1952. He was ordained deacon in June 1952 and priest in May 1953. Allison later studied at Oxford University and received the Doctor of Philosophy degree in 1956. He then taught church history at the School of Theology at the University of the South and at Virginia Theological Seminary.

Allison served as rector of Grace Episcopal Church in New York City before being elected as a bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina. He was the coadjutor bishop of the Diocese of South Carolina in 1980, becoming the twelfth diocesan bishop on January 2, 1982. He retired in 1990, but has continued preaching, speaking, and writing.

Episcopal Presiding Bishop Michael Curry could not be reached for comment.

Allison was personally and officially received by ACNA Primate Foley Beach, who wrote a warm welcoming letter to the retired episcopal bishop. "He received me most graciously," Allison told VOL in a phone call.

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