Shirley Eunice Allen

Today we celebrate the life of and legacy of Shirley Eunice (Washington) Allen. Shirley was the first born to the late Wilbert Washington and Dorothy (Grey) Washington. Born on March 15, 1942, Washington, DC, she attended DC Public Schools and graduated from Shaw Junior High School and received her GED at 15 years of age. Shirley’s sisters included Anna Williams (preceded in death) and Amy Moss.

At an early age, Shirley married James Wardell Allen (preceded in death), from that union they had three children, James Wardell Allen, Nancy Allen, and Dennis Allen (preceded in death). Shirley, affectionately known as Mother Allen went on to have three additional children Annette Maria Allen, Reginald Lamont Allen, and Shirlene Diane Allen.

In the summer of 1971, Shirley realized her potential as more than a housewife and perused her educational opportunity and completed technical training and education through a Federal Technical Training Program in the District of Columbia. In 1972, Shirley was hired as a federal employee with the Federal Communication Commission. She went on to raise her children as a single mother, always putting her children first over all her personal achievements over the years. She retired as a Program Analyst from the Federal Government after 25 years of service.

Shirley had a passion for singing and dancing, she would line her children up on many Sundays and rainy days and just sing for us. Many new her signature dance moves included the “leg kick out”. Her peers at work would plead with her to sing at all the special events at her job and to make potato salad too. Shirley enjoyed life too, she enjoyed traveling, partying with her friends, dining out, dancing. She loved spending as much time with her children and encouraging them to be happy in life. During her late 70’s Shirley enjoyed old cowboy movies for entertainment and dining out. Shirley accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and would always know just what to say to her children who all had different personalities and always stated we should except Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.

Shirley leaves behind to cherish her memories, her five remaining children and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great- great grandchildren. In addition, she leaves behind aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, and a devoted group of friends.

Shirley was one of the strongest, independent, compassionate and loving Soul you would ever know.

You will be missed Ma