Camille Wyman Allen

Camille Wyman Allen, 79, formerly of Columbia, Tennessee and New York City passed away on October 8, 2026, just two days shy of her 80th birthday.

Born on October 10, 1946, in Nashville, Tennessee, Camille was the daughter of Charles and Edna Cox Wyman. She grew up in Nashville, graduated from St. Bernard High Academy, and later attended Butler University.

Camille was a woman of extraordinary creativity, determination, and spirit. From an early age, she developed a love for the performing arts, particularly ballet, dance, and theater. A talented performer, she appeared in numerous theatrical productions, but her favorite role was portraying Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady. Following her dreams, Camille moved to New York City, where she pursued her passion for theater and became a company and house manager with Nederlander Theatres running the Lunt Fontanne and opening the Marriott Marquis on Broadway. At a time when women were often expected to follow more traditional paths, Camille was a trailblazer, embracing opportunities with independence, confidence, and courage.

Her passion for the stage remained an important part of her life. She was a member of ATPAM and received awards recognizing her work and contributions to theater. Camille also remained active in Pi Beta Phi sorority alumnae activities, enjoying the friendships and lifelong connections she made along the way. Away from the spotlight, Camille found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She had a special love for animals and the outdoors, as well as a keen appreciation for antiques, architecture, and history. She especially enjoyed collecting antiques and redecorating her home, taking great care to preserve its historical character and authenticity. Her artistic eye and attention to detail were evident in everything she touched.

Of all the roles Camille played throughout her life, she cherished being a mother to Shannon, and a loyal daughter to Edna and "Buster". Her daughter, Shannon, will always remember Camille as her greatest advocate—a mother who believed in her, and encouraged her to pursue her own path. One of her last cherished roles was being the wife of John Allen, and together family genealogy research, and travel filled their days. She missed him terribly after his passing on her 70 birthday while visiting Italy. Camille's strength, individuality, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will remain a cherished part of her legacy.

Camille was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Edna Cox Wyman; and her brother, Charles Wyman and her husband, John Allen.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Shannon (Walter) Harris; grandchildren, Blair (Steven) Hickam and Reid (Abri De Atley) Harris; and great-grandchildren, Emery and Macy Hickam.

Other special survivors include close cousins Michele Jones, Melanie Whitaker, Melissa Nordin, Karene Kell, Tracey Kell and Trish Welsh as well as dear friends Susan McNamara and lifelong best friend Brenda Smith, godchildren Jordan Humphrey and Ahna Camille.

Memorial contributions in Camille's honor may be made to the Alzheimer's Association .

Camille lived a life filled with passion, creativity, beauty, and determination. She will be remembered as a gifted performer, a woman ahead of her time, and, most importantly, a loving mother and friend. Though the final curtain has fallen, the love she shared and the memories she created will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM with a visitation one hour prior at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home, 320 W. 7th St., Columbia, TN 38401. Camille will be laid to rest in Mount Hope Cemetery, 608 Mt. Hope Street, Franklin, Tennessee 37064. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.