Mr. Allen was born in Franklin, Georgia on December 31, 1922, the son of the late Annie Lena Clementine Miller Allen and Gordon Allen. After graduating from high school he entered the United States Army where he served honorably in the Pacific Theater during World War II. For his gallantry he received the Good Conduct medal AR 600-68, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, World War II Victory Medal, and the Asiatic Pacific Service medal with 2 Bronze Stars. After his service to his country he became a well respected business man in Roanoke, Alabama where he was the owner of both the Henry Allen Wholesale Produce Company, and the Park Avenue Grocery. Mr. Allen had a tremendous work ethic, and also had a job with the Alabama Department of Agriculture from which he retired. Even though he worked from dawn to dusk, he still found time to serve on the Roanoke City Council. He later moved to Heard County, Georgia where he became a well known member of that community as well. Never idle, at sixty two, he returned to school and obtained his Real estate license and worked many years in that field. Mr. Henry always the farmer was lovingly referred to by his customers as “The Apple Man.” In his spare time he served on the Heard County School Board, was a member of the Mason’s, Heard County and Randolph County Lion’s Club, American Legion of Franklin, Georgia, and the Heard County Cattleman’s Association.
One of the most important aspects of Mr. Allen’s life, were his Christian Principles. He led his life in the manner he felt his God would have him do, serving his Lord and being an example to all who knew him. As a faithful member of the Bethel Christian Church, he served in many different capacities. As an Elder he guided the church family and performed any job that was needed. Nothing was to menial. He loved being with his family, especially the grandchildren. He felt it his job to make them into upstanding, God fearing citizens, as well as mix in a lot of fun in the process! In his spare time he loved hunting and fishing. “Mr. Henry” always had a sparkle in his eye and a smile on his face. His quick wit and ready chuckle made him a favorite in any crowd. He was beloved to his family and all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife of sixty-six years, Hazel Lucas Allen, of Franklin, GA.; two daughters, Sandi Allen of Franklin, GA., and Cynthia Keel of Lawrenceville, GA.; three sisters, Lillian Newell of Columbia, S. C., Lorene Denney of Barnett, TX., and Linda (Ben) Pike of Columbus, GA., three brothers, Frank (Betty) Allen of Keller, TX., James Bruce (Deborah) Allen Hartsville, TN., and Herschel (Wanda) Allen of Lanett, AL.; four grandchildren, Tina Hannah, Lorie Starnes, Chris Keel, and Melissa (John) Seymour; eleven great-grandchildren, Josh (Holly) Hannah, Shane Hannah, Brandi Hannah, Lisa (Matt) Williamson, J. C. Starnes, Jake Starnes, and C. J. Starnes, Lee Ann Barrett, Michael Austin Cadwell, Aubree Cadwell, and Makenzie Seymour; and two great-great-grandchildren, Kole and Dessi Hannah. Other than his parents he was preceded in death by his beloved son, Micheal Henry Allen; mother and father-in-law Zach and Annie Lois Lucas; one sister, Barbara Curry, five brothers, Tom Allen, Tillman Allen, Gordon Allen, Jr, Judson Allen, and Homer Boggus.; three great-grandchildren, Westley Mashburn, Kayla Smith, and William “T” Smith; and one son-in-law, Jerry Keel.