Isaiah Jamal Allen

Isaiah J. Allen, age 34, of Pickerington, OH, passed away Monday, July 7, 2025. Isaiah was born March 6, 1991, in Chillicothe, OH. Isaiah began his educational journey at Allen Elementary School before his family relocated to Reynoldsburg. He continued through Hannah Ashton Middle School and Reynoldsburg Junior High, graduating from Reynoldsburg High School in 2009, where he excelled as a standout wrestler and takedown champion. Isaiah’s love for physicality was constant. Though he was still remembered for his wrestling achievements at RHS, and became a coach when, he returned to the sport in the last two years, reigniting his competitive fire. A bench press champion and a relentless participant in challenges like the 4x4x48 run, he inspired countless friends and family members with his strength, grit, and motivational reels showcasing his endurance. His athletic talents carried him to Mercyhurst College in Pennsylvania, where he continued wrestling with determination and passion. Isaiah later attended Columbus State Community College, earning both an Associate of Applied Science Degree and an Associate of Arts Degree. His technical training in heating and cooling through Columbus State University reflected his commitment to building practical, in-demand skills. At the time of his passing, he was actively pursuing HVAC certification and working in facilities — a role he truly enjoyed, he loved fixing anything broken. From a young age, Isaiah showed exceptional drive. He worked at Wendy’s, Starbucks and served with the Ohio Investigative Unit as an underage informant. His career with the State of Ohio included roles as an intern, mail clerk, mechanic, and facilities support, each reflecting his reliability and strong work ethic. Isaiah also founded “Sock It to Me Transport,” a business fueled by precision and passion. His enthusiasm for vehicles led him to Germain Toyota, where he transported cars with pride and joy. His current employer was JLL, and his title was Maintenance Engineer working at the William Green Building in Columbus, Ohio. He loved this job because he was ALWAYS early, stayed late or worked extra if needed. It gave Isaiah an opportunity to learn and fix a variety of building issues, so it was a perfect fit! His presence was magnetic, his heart generous, and his drive unstoppable. Isaiah’s energy, warmth, and indomitable spirit will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the positive example he set. Isaiah is survived by his parents, Gary and Tanya Ilis Allen; his brother, Gary Paul Allen; grandparents Paul R. and Vera M. Allen, and Tauhidah Rusul-Ahmad; uncles Karaiba Kunta-Kinte Ahmad, Kenneth Ward, and Maurice McCormick; aunts Sandra F. Matthews and Rita McCormick; and his close cousin Lamin Mabra-Callahan. He also leaves behind his cherished pet lizard, Diddy, and a host of extended cousins, friends, and family who will carry forward his memory with love and pride.

The family request that anyone considering purchasing flowers or contributing food make a donation instead to the wrestling program or the sports programs at Reynoldsburg High School in honor of Isaiah Allen.