Joe Allen

Anthony Jonathan Allen, lovingly known as "Joe," passed away on August 3, 2026, in Grand Prairie, Texas, at the age of 87. He was surrounded by the love of his family to the very end. Born on January 28, 1939, in Abilene, Texas and growing up in Sherman, Texas, Joe lived a life marked by dedication to his family, service to his country, a passion for helping others and bringing people together.

Joe proudly served in the United States Navy for 22 years, retiring as a Navy Chief CPO/E7 on July 17, 1977. From 1956 to 1977, he specialized in cryptographic communications devices and served aboard several notable ships that took him across the Seven Seas. His assignments included the TILLAMOOK ATA-192 (from 1956–57), the SURF BIRD ADG-383 (from 1958–59), the NAVASOTA AO-106 (in 1966), the ENTERPRISE CVAN-65 (from 1966–70 during the height of the Vietnam War), and the MIDWAY CVN-41 (from 1976–77). Examples of additional service include his PTA leadership in Middletown, Rhode Island (one of his family’s 18+ addresses during his service) where he is still recognized as a life member, he remained connected to his military roots as a life member of VFW Post 8561 in Arlington, Texas, and he continued to serve his country as a volunteer for over 10 years at the DFW National Cemetery where he will be buried. Joe’s commitment to his country and his community was unwavering, and his contributions were a source of pride for both him and those who knew him.

Beyond his military career, Joe was a man who cherished family above all else. He is survived by his beloved wife Catherine of 64 years; their four children Julie, Jill, Amy, and Jon and their respective spouses Cecil, Ab, and Andrea; his grandchildren Kris, Michaela, Jade, and Eliza and their respective spouses Zach, Jake, and Ty; his great-granddaughter Violet; and his niece and nephew Ginny and Jonathan. Joe also shared a special bond with his favorite cat, Bouchon. He was predeceased by his parents Ralph X Allen and Virginia Inez Hillman, as well as his sister Judith Ayn-Allen Gibbs.

Family gatherings were at the heart of Joe’s life. Known for creating unforgettable moments filled with laughter and love, he brought people together with his culinary talents. His signature BBQ sauce, BBQ chicken, Hibachi hamburgers, chili (always without beans!), and his life-changing Mississippi Mudcake became staples at these gatherings with each dish prepared with care and shared generously with family and friends.

As a lifelong Washington Redskins fan, Joe found joy in cheering for his team through victories and defeats alike. His well-timed one-liners brought humor to any situation and reflected his kind-hearted nature. Those who knew him remember him as a loving and encouraging presence whose generosity left an indelible mark on countless lives. If he were writing this himself, he would add that he lasted this long due to all his “good clean living!”.

Joe’s legacy is one of love, service, and connection, a testament to the values he held dear throughout his life. A memorial service will be held where those wishing to honor Joe’s memory are invited to share their reflections or post tributes on the memory board provided.

May Joe Allen’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and inspire others to live with the same kindness and dedication that defined his remarkable life. A Memorial Service will be held on August 18, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Bean Massey Burge 2951 South Beltline Road, followed by a reception at the same location. At 12:15 PM* we will line up to be escorted to the burial ceremony from 01:00 PM to 01:30 PM at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery at 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy. If desired, in lieu of flowers please donate to a charity of your choice in memory of Joe Allen.

*IMPORTANT: Those planning to go to the 1:00 PM ceremony should plan to be ready to depart with police escort from Bean Massey Burge at 12:15 PM sharp.