Thomas Eugene Allen

Born on September 10, 1938, in Baton Rouge, Tommy spent his life rooted in Louisiana while building a life defined by devotion to family, Catholic faith, service to country, hard work, and a deep love for the outdoors. He was the son of Deacon Eugene F. Allen and R. Patricia Allen and the oldest of six children.

Mr. Allen is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sheila L. Allen; his daughter, Julie; his son, Kurt Allen (Jade); and his three grandchildren, Sage, Lyla, and Jack Thomas Allen; and his brothers, Fred Allen (Vonda), and Fr. David Allen; his sister, Madlyn Hicks (Mark); as well as 9 nieces and nephews and 14 great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and by two brothers, Ronnie Allen (Debbie) and Dennis Allen (Connie).

Tommy served his country in the United States Army for four years in the early 1960s as a journalist, stationed primarily in Hawaii. During his military service, he wrote for Stars and Stripes as well as local Honolulu newspapers. That work reflected one of his many talents as a writer and communicator, gifts that remained part of his life in the years that followed.

He devoted 41 years to work for Gulf States Utilities/Entergy, serving in many departments over the course of his career. His work took him from the line crew to sales, public speaking, marketing, and the management of teams working in rural areas. Across those many roles, he brought a wide range of abilities and a steady commitment to the work before him. He was also known at one time as a spokesperson for nuclear energy, another expression of his ability to communicate clearly and connect with others. He was a graduate of Catholic High School in Baton Rouge.

Beyond his professional life, Tommy was a man of many talents. He was a writer, a spokesman, and a handyman. He was also, as those who knew him often saw, someone who made time for people. He was described as the nicest man you would ever meet, and he was remembered for taking time to listen, to play, and to be present for his family.

His life was especially marked by the things he loved most. Tommy loved sports and the outdoors in nearly every form. Hunting and fishing were among his greatest pleasures, and duck hunting was his absolute favorite. He loved to read, especially stories about history, hunting, and adventure. He also loved the beach, the mountains, and travel. These interests were not passing pastimes, but enduring parts of a life lived with curiosity, energy, and appreciation for the world around him.

Family remained at the center of his life. He was a wonderful husband and father who always took time to listen or play. A man of wit and wisdom, his nieces and nephews, and later his great-nieces and great-nephews, remembered him for the same generous attention. He took time to hear their challenges, offer helpful advice, or tell a story that could bring laughter or teach a lesson. Those memories remain a lasting part of the legacy he leaves behind.

Tommy was also a man of strong faith and character. He was a Man of Manresa, believed in God, country, and family, and his commitment to serve never wavered. Those values could be seen in the many parts of his life: in his military service, in his long career, in his love for home and family, and in the way he gave his time and attention to others.

Thomas E. Allen will be remembered for a life that reflected dedication, loyalty, and a wide range of gifts put to meaningful use. From his years in Army journalism to his decades in the energy industry, from days spent outdoors hunting and fishing to time shared with children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, his life touched many across generations. His memory will remain with all who knew him. A Visitation will be held on November 16, 2026, from 09-10 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 445 Marquette Ave. Following the visitation, there will be a funeral mass (10 AM) followed by internment at the OLOM Columbarium and a reception across the street from the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers or a charity of choice.