Thomas H. Allen

Thomas was born in Blossom, Texas to the late Tom Milton and Marie Kerr Allen. He proudly served his country during World War II, in the United States Army as a member of Company F, 26th Infantry, Big Red 1 Division rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant where he was awarded the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, Good Conduct Medal; American Defense Service Medal; EAME Campaign Medal with 4 Bronze Stars. After being honorably discharged, he joined his father and uncle forming Allen Brothers Coal Company.

After retiring in 1974, he started his cattle business.

Thomas enjoyed returning to Pikeville and the surrounding areas visiting with dear friends and former employees, playing dominoes and going home to Texas for reunions. He was a charter member of West Hills Presbyterian Church in Harriman, Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his wife, AlyaDean Cunningham Allen; his siblings, Glen Allen, Mary Allen Solomon and Marjorie Allen.

Thomas is survived by his daughter Karen (Allen) Ridge; son, Glenn (MiDori) Allen; grandchildren, Greg (Vanessa) Draeger and Jay Draeger; special friend, Judi Caruthers and friends who meant so much to him.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 pm on Monday, September 28, and Tuesday from 1 to 2:30 pm at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.

A celebration of life service will follow at 2:30 pm on Tuesday at the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Hamilton Memorial Gardens with military honors.

Memorial contributions may be made in Thomas’ name to the American Cancer Society, 6221 Shallowford Road, Suite 102, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson.