Michael Eugene Allen's Obituary
Michael Eugene Allen (“Mike”), a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, departed from this world on April 7, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and strength. He was born in Maryland on August 13, 1946, and spent his life in service to others, spreading joy to all who knew him.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Allen and Olive Johnson Allen, his brother Herbert Allen Jr., and his stepson, Jimmy Bowers. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Jeanne Allen of Smyrna, GA; his four children from his first marriage to Barbara Allen of Boynton Beach, FL: Kevin Allen of Boynton Beach, FL.; Deborah Allen of Hiram, GA; Shannon Allen Ferguson of Douglasville, GA; Scott Allen of Simsbury, CT; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; his sister, Betty Jo Allen Richards, of Washington D.C., his stepdaughter, Sharon White of Waco, GA; seven step-grandchildren, and five step-great-grandchildren.
Mike grew up in Maryland surrounded by the love of his family and carried those values throughout his life. He served as an acolyte in the Seventh Day Adventist Church and graduated from Takoma Academy Seventh Day Adventist High School in 1964. His early years in Maryland shaped him into the strong and brave individual he became.
Mike’s bravery and selflessness were evident in his service to his country. During his time in Vietnam, Mike displayed extraordinary courage, earning the Bronze Star of Valor for his heroic efforts running from man to man patching up their wounds and carrying them back to safety during a bloody battle between the 4th infantry and a North Vietnamese battalion. Mike crawled 150 yards through the jungle brush under constant gunfire. As the only medic to come out of the battle alive and unwounded, he treated the wounded and loaded them into evacuation helicopters. His unwavering commitment to the well-being of his fellow soldiers was a testament to his character and sense of duty.
Mike built upon his service as a medic in the US Army and graduated from Howard University College of Allied Health Sciences in Washington D.C. in 1974 as a Physician’s Assistant. In his remarkable life, Mike dedicated himself to serving others with compassion and care. For four decades, he served as a physician's assistant at Smyrna Family Medicine, where he was loved and respected by staff and patients. His gentle bedside manner and unwavering dedication to providing quality healthcare touched the lives of countless individuals in the community. Beyond his professional duties, Mike’s compassionate nature extended to serving residents at Brian Center, Delmar Gardens, and Garden Terrace (now Woodland Ridge) nursing and retirement facilities, brightening the days of residents with his kind and empathetic care. Mike’s selfless commitment to serving others left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of crossing paths with him, exemplifying the true essence of compassion and generosity.
Beyond his military and medical service, Mike had a zest for life that was infectious to all who knew him. He found immense joy in flying small single-engine planes, building computers, working on cars, riding his Harley-Davidson and indulging his passion for fast cars and motorcycles. Whether soaring through the skies or racing down the open road, Mike embraced every moment with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. He was an unapologetic “foodie”. He was an amazing chef who loved to cook and share his culinary genius with others. His love for laughter was contagious. and he had a particular fondness for a good comedy. He loved to read books and watch movies. His brilliant mind was always seeking and learning new things. His infectious laughter and vibrant spirit brought light and joy to those around him, creating cherished memories that will be treasured forever.
In his spiritual life, Mike was a faithful member of the Smyrna-Shiloh Seventh Day Adventist Church, where he found solace and community in his faith. He also attended the Highest Praise Church of God with his beloved wife, Jeanne, further enriching their spiritual journey together. His commitment to his faith was reflected in his compassionate nature and dedication to serving others, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In his journey through life, Mike found his soulmate in Jeanne Allen, the love of his life. Together, they shared countless cherished moments and built a bond that would withstand the tests of time. He was fiercely protective of Jeanne and spent his life dedicated to her. Their love story transcends time and even death.
Though Mike’s physical presence may be gone, his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His love and light will continue to shine brightly, guiding and inspiring us all in the days ahead. Rest in peace, dear Mike.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 14th 3:00 PM at Davis-Struempf Chapel with Rev. Tony Stallings officiating. The family will receive friends before the service at the funeral home from 2:00-3:00 PM.
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