Allen W. Rankins

Allen W. Rankins, husband, son, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, transitioned from his earthly life on March 27, 2020 at the age of 69. He was born October 29, 1950 in Saginaw, Michigan to his proud mother, Addie M. Rankins-Harper.

Allen dedicated his life to the Lord at an early age, affirming his membership with Christ Community Church under the leadership of Pastor William D. Aldridge. Upon moving to Detroit, Michigan, he joined The New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Southfield, Michigan, pastored by Reverend David L. Roberson. He loved the Lord and was active in the church, having served as a Deacon, member of the church choir, and was studying to become a Sunday School Teacher.

Allen was a graduate of Saginaw High School, “Class of 1969”. He was an exceptional athlete through his junior high and high school years in track and football, holding an undefeated record in track for years. He also attended Oakland University.

Allen was employed with Dow Chemical for a few years before being employed by Chrysler Corporation in Detroit, Michigan as an assembly worker, working his way up to Supervisor. Retiring after 35 years, he went back to work a few years later at Johnson Control in Highland Park, Michigan until his health failed him.

Allen met Cynthia Rankins in 1997 and they married in June of 2004. He loved singing Smokey Robinson and Temptation songs, watching sports, his favorite TV shows, playing pool, growing and taking care of his flowers and plants. Allen will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Allen leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of fifteen years, Cynthia Rankins; mother, Addie M. Harper; daughters, Lakesha Nelson and Sherita J. (Brent) Rankins- Sherman; grandchildren, Jakia Allen, Dajuan Pruitt, sisters, Evelyn Couch, Josie Couch, Esther Sanders; brother, Lee Couch Jr.; nieces, Gabrilla (Quincy) Winters, Danielle (Frank) Erve, Ashley Jones; nephews, Lee III (Sheila) Couch, Lenuel L. Couch; aunts, Marcia Porter, Sheila Blackston; uncles, Richard (Sheila) Rankins, Howard (Vivian) Rankins; mother-in-law, Margaret Zeigler; sister-in-law, Nancy Jones; brothers-in-law, Kevin and Keith Zeigler; many great-nieces, great-nephews, other relatives and friends.

Allen was predeceased by his fathers, Lee W. Couch, Sr. and Fred J. Harper; grandparents, Everlean McCluney, A.W. and Louise Rankins; father-in-law, John Zeigler.