Helen Kathleen Allen

Helen Allen was born on October 29, 1945 to Ollie and Granyel Knox in Phoenix, Arizona. She is survived by siblings Sydney, Jerry, and Marion, her husband William, and children Wayne, Scott, Penny, Kelley, and many grandchildren.

William and Helen were married in May of 1971. William and Helen owned and operated Allen’s Drive-In Cleaners, a neighborhood fixture at 40th St. & Indian School for 25 years.

Helen is best remembered for her smile, generosity, and love for the outdoors. Weekends commonly found her at horseshoe tournaments, both locally as well as in Crown King.

She loved exploring Arizona and taking her kids to historical sites around the state; the frequent trips to Old Tucson forged lasting memories that still bring laughs and smiles to the faces of her children.

She enjoyed being the host at family gatherings, and watching people come together, especially as her kids grew and scattered across the valley. It brought her great happiness to shower her friends and family with gifts at Christmas and to watch her grandchildren scamper and run in their attempts to find the Easter eggs scattered throughout the yard.

After her retirement, visitors would often find her relaxing on the porch, enjoying nature, and playing with her grandchildren.

Helen passed away on May 16th, 2018 after complications from surgery. Her mind fought hard for recovery, but her body was ready to move on.

Mom, thank you for the time you shared with us. You will live forever in our hearts. We love you!

Come with Me

God saw she was getting tired

And the cure was not to be.

So He put his arms around her

And whispered, “Come with Me.”

With tearful hearts

We watched her fade away

Although we loved her dearly,

We could not make her stay.

A golden heart stopped beating,

Hardworking hands to rest,

God broke our hearts to prove to us,

He only takes the best.