John Edward Allen

.

John Edward Allen, affectionately known by family

and friends as “Fat,” was born on September 27, 1953,

in Bentonia, Mississippi, to the late Jimmie Allen Sr.

and Ruthie Mae Crosby Allen. He was the youngest of

seven children and was surrounded by the love and

guidance of his family throughout his early years.

John was introduced to faith in Christ at the family’s

church, Pleasant Grove. He attended Bentonia High

School, and around 1973, he relocated to Chicago,

Illinois, where his brothers and sister resided. He

began a career with Jernberg Industries alongside his

brother, Jimmie Allen, where he worked diligently

for 30 years before retiring. He was respected by his

coworkers for his strong work ethic, reliability, and

dedication.

While living in Chicago, John met his former wife,

Carolyn Williford. Together they had children and

maintained a lasting bond despite their divorce after

nearly 20 years of marriage. They remained

committed to supporting their children and came

together to love and encourage all of their

grandchildren. Outside of work, John found joy in the

outdoors. He loved fishing and hunting and enjoyed

spending time with family and friends, creating

memories that will be cherished for years to come.

He also loved cooking and going out to eat with his

family. John was known for his kind heart, infectious

laugh, and generosity. He was also well known for

giving many of his family members their nicknames,

a gift that brought smiles and laughter to those he

loved.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmie

Allen Sr. and Ruthie Mae Crosby Allen; and his

brothers, Joe Burks, Jimmie Allen, and Willie James

Allen. He leaves to cherish his loving memory his

children, Deon Williford, Andrea Williford, John

Swinney (LaWanda Burks), Demetrice Williford, and

Jennifer Allen; one brother, Jerry Allen; two sisters,

Emma Jean Stuckey (Uncle Red) and Georgia B.

Douglas; 26 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren;

and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other

relatives, and many dear friends.

Though John is no longer with us in body, his love,

kindness, and legacy will remain forever in the

hearts of all who knew and loved him.