Evelyn Portee Allen

One of four children, she was born October 26, 1926, to Sarah and James Portee on a farm in Carmi, IL, where she grew up. After finishing school and working in Carmi, she married Lewis Allen in Carmi in 1950. She and Lewis promptly moved to Bremerton and purchased a house near her sister-in-law, Lillian Walker; eventually, her father-in-law and mother-in-law moved to Bremerton and lived next door.

She was active with Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, being a member of the church Missionary Society. In 1969 she began employment at JC Penney in Bremerton. After Lewis died in 1977, she moved to Springfield, Ohio, and lived there for many years before returning to the State of Washington in 2013.

She enjoyed gardening, needlework, walking with her dog, being a homemaker, gathering with family, and when younger playing volleyball with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Lewis E. Allen, and sisters Verlia, brothers Vinson and Nicholas, step-sisters Anna Louise and Elsie, and step-brother Earl.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 21, at Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, 902 Park Ave., Bremerton, Washington, at 11 a.m., followed by a reception at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Bremerton, New North Street A.M.E. Church in Springfield, Ohio, or the charity of your choice.