Robert Allen (Lansing)

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord,He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Psalms 91

Robert Lee Allen went home to be with the Lord on March 31, 2020 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Michigan. He was born December 9, 1948 in Winona, Mississippi, to a loving mother Mary Ann Ware and father Eugene Allen, both of Winona, Mississippi.

Robert had a big smile that would light up any room that complimented the passion he had for others. Robert had the most passion for his loving wife Eddie Mae. They met in Winona, MS, and he soon married the love of his life in 1966. Soon after marriage, he moved to Lansing, Michigan where he began working for Clark service station, got settled, and sent for his wife Eddie Mae to join him. Later, he accepted a job with General Motors where he stayed and flourished until he retired after 40 years of service.

Robert loved many things, especially his family! Being raised in a large family he felt the need to look after his brothers and sisters. That loved especially trickled down to his immediate family. He immensely loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren so much! His grandchildren called him “Grandpa,” and the great grandchildren all called him “Papa.” Robert also loved taking vacations, attending auto shows, listening to gospel music, and even jazz. He loved working in his yard mowing grass and making sure it was perfect, and also participating in sport as well as attending sporting events.

Deacon Allen, loved his Lansing Church of God In Christ (LCOGIC) family so much! He truly loved and respected Bishop Samuel Duncan Jr., and was his close friend for many, many years. He loved the brotherhood that he developed with the brothers of the church, as well as the other members. Deacon Allen was a true servant for the Lord! He served in the church in many capacities as a member of many ministries, member of the board, church maintenance manager, bus driver, shoveled snow, painted, did carpentry, ordered supplies, and worked in the food pantry. Deacon Allen was always willing to serve the Lord in any capacity that was needed, and he was happy to be able to serve.

Robert leaves to cherish his memory, his beautiful wife Eddie Mae Allen, mother-in-law, Ruby Purnell, children, Alethea Allen (aka Greta,) Tanieka Cannon, God son Eric Allen, and Lamiah (Harold) Strong. Grand-children: LaDaryous (Wykeena) Blocker, Sinise Summerville, Brian Cannon, Brianna Cannon, Zana Cannon, LaPriest (aka Pooh,) Blocker, Iman Blocker, Elijah White, Malachi Allen, and Isaiah (aka Bubby,) Strong. Great grandchildren: Dezia Livingston (aka Shuggie,) Noah Blocker, Jeremi Miller, Calab Blocker, Majesty Blocker, Brielle Cannon, Braylin Crockett, Kingston Cannon, and Carter Hawkins, and many loving brothers, sisters, brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, sisters: Mary Jean Overstreet, Anneast Flowers, Catherine Stewart-Wilson, Nadine Allen, brothers: Albert Allen and Lee Allen and sister-in-law Glena Allen.