Charles Edward Allen

On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, Charles Edward Allen transitioned from labor to reward in the company of his wife, Debbie, and his dog, Nellie. He was married to Debbie on July 26, 1980.

Charles Edward Allen was born on October 12, 1949, to the late Andrew J. Allen, Sr. and Annie Pearl Allen. He became a member of the St. John A.M.E. Church at an early age and later became a member of Grove Baptist Church for 20 years. He was a graduate of Pearl High School in 1969. He attended Tennessee State A & I (now Tennessee State University) for two years studying Business Administration. He later joined the U. S. Naval Academy, Portsmouth Naval Medical Center, where he worked for three years as a Dental Technician.

Professionally, he spent 40 years working at Norfolk Naval Ship Yard as a Shipfitter and a Union Steward.  Charles retired in 2004, after which he devoted his time to many charitable organizations such as Union Mission, St. Jude, Animal Rescue, and many more until his death.

Charles leaves to cherish his life legacy of love and faith his devoted wife, Debbie, his brother Andrew J. Allen, Jr. of San Francisco, California, nephew, Marcus T. Henderson (Yolanda), great nieces and nephews, Mikala Jones, Shifra Lelia Bartha, Mystique Ashley, Justin Randolph, Keith Jones, and Marcus T. Henderson, Jr., five brothers in law, three sisters in law, and his faithful pet companion, Nellie.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his eldest sister, Rev. Jo Anne Allen, and his younger sister, Lelia M. Henderson.

The family of the late Charles E. Allen acknowledges the many acts of kindness, concern, and compassion during his transition. We are forever grateful and pray that God’s blessings are bestowed upon each of you. Special thanks to Virginia Oncology in Suffolk, VA, and Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth, VA.