Joseph James Allen

Joseph Allen was born on March 13, 1946, at Charity Hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana, to his loving parents Melvina Allen and Leonard Allen. From the beginning, Joseph carried the strength, determination, and spirit that would define his life and the legacy he leaves behind.

Joseph proudly served his country in the United States Army, entering active duty on May 19, 1967. He trained and worked as a 36C20 Lineman, a demanding and essential role responsible for maintaining communication lines in the midst of the Vietnam War. He served with honor in the United States Army Vietnam (USARV), completing over a year of foreign service. For his dedication and bravery, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Marksman Badge (M 14), and two Overseas Service Bars. He was honorably discharged on December 20, 1968, and continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserve until 1973.

After returning home, Joseph devoted his life to hard work and family. He spent his entire career as a mechanic, a trade he mastered with skill, patience, and pride. He dreamed of one day building a home large enough for all of his children—a dream that reflected the size of his heart and the depth of his love.

Joseph was a man of strong will and strong emotion. He could be stubborn, and when pushed too far, he had a temper that everyone knew not to test. But beneath that fire was a man whose children and grandchildren were his entire world. He loved deeply, protected fiercely, and gave everything he had to the people he cared about.

One of the most important relationships of Joseph’s life was with his twin brother, Peter Allen, who preceded him in death. Their bond was unbreakable, and Joseph carried his brother’s memory with him every day.

Joseph is survived by his children: Dana Ross Stewart, Joseph Ross, Jonathan Allen, and Monique Allen Anderson, with his first wife, Diane Allen, who also preceded him in death. He is also remembered by his stepchildren through Donna Allen—Stephen Sutton, Ledora Berdlow, and Ethonel Yerks—who were part of his extended family circle. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy through his grandchildren:

Tamyara Taylor, Teara Taylor, Shandrika Ross, Jamaria Ross, Joseph Ross Jr., Jaylen Ross, Trevor Henderson, Jonathan Allen Jr., Jeanette Valentine Allen, Justice Drew Allen, Denali Ricardo Vic, Ariana Semaj Williams, Charles Anderson Jr., Haley Anderson, Anthony Anderson, Dominick Ross, Stephen Sutton Jr., Ethonel Yerks Jr., and Ethan Yerks.

Joseph is also survived by his siblings: John Allen, David Allen, O’Neal Allen, Melvin Allen, Audrie Bush, and Rosie Courtney; and he is preceded in death by his brothers Alfred Allen and his twin, Peter Allen. He is further remembered by a host of nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Joseph also had a joyful side—he loved dancing, and when music played, he took over the dance floor with freedom and happiness that lit up the room. His presence, his laughter, and his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.