Embodiments of a context-retention controller and method for retaining context in a wireless access network are generally described herein. In some embodiments, the context-retention controller may assign a context identifier to a mobile device at network entry for context retention. A disconnection and context-retention request may be received from a base station to trigger entry of the mobile station into a context-retention mode. The base station may generate the disconnection and context-retention request upon an indication of a disconnection of the mobile device from the wireless access network. The context-retention controller may maintain context for the mobile device in a context-retention database after disconnection of the mobile device from the wireless access network.