October 4 1925 January 15 2022
Isaiah Allen was born on October 4, 1925, in Newnan, Georgia. He was the second of six children born to the late George and Love Allen. His four brothers, Matthew, Daniel, Malachi, and Benjamin preceded him in death, as well as his one sister, Ida. Isaiah was always on the move his entire life. He was not one to be idle. On January 22, 1944, he enlisted in the United States Navy. Before he was honorably discharged two years and 18 days later, Isaiah worked as a Steward’s Mate First Class in the Pearl Harbor Officers Club. Upon his release he returned to Newnan where he met and married Eldora Redwine on October 20, 1948. Although employed in Newnan, Isaiah decided to join the Great Migration from the South to the North to seek employment in one of the auto companies. So, following his older brother, he traveled to Detroit, Michigan. Shortly thereafter, he was employed by the Ford Motor Company. After gaining employment, he was joined by his wife and young daughter, San. As the couple made Detroit their home, they brought into the world four additional children affectionately called Rie, David, Bar and Pinky. Isaiah remained employed at Ford until his retirement in 1982. A few years later, Isaiah married Helen O’Gara. Both Eldora and Helen preceded him in death as well as his son David Allen. Isaiah enjoyed his retirement. He loved gardening and landscaping; building, constructing and renovating, playing the piano and cooking, especially barbeque ribs. He truly enjoyed family gatherings and he would always bring the ribs with his special sauce. Isaiah also loved to talk and talk and talk. He talked to anyone and everyone he met if they stood still long enough. He was very particular about his appearance. He was always old-school sharp. He never wore jogging suits, jeans or gym shoes even while working. His shoes were always had a “spit shine”, and his trousers always had a razor-sharp crease in them. Isaiah was a child of God and believed in what the goodness of the Lord could do. He was a faithful member of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church for many years before joining the Vernon Chapel AME Church family where he attended faithfully until his illness. Isaiah was an active member of both churches. He served in whatever capacity the Pastor needed him to serve. He was a willing worker. His love, his passion though was the Male Chorus. Isaiah began singing in the Male Chorus at Galilee in the early 50’s and continued to sing with the Vernon Chapel AME Male Chorus until he was no longer able to do so. During the latter days of his life, Isaiah had difficulty remembering people, places and events. His reality was a little misplaced. But there is one thing that he never forgot, one thing that he knew without a shadow of doubt, one thing that his illness could never remove of his mind and whenever his daughters were in his presence, he always reminded them of this one thing – If you trust in the Lord, you will be alright. Isaiah leaves to cherish his memory, four daughters: Cassandra Elaine Allen, Annie Marie O’Ree (George), Barbara Ann Allen, Antionette Delaine Allen. Seven grandchildren: Mark Anthony Allen, Myea Chenese Allen, Tawanda Makeda Surles (Jonathan), Derek Deon O’Ree, Ebony Annette O’Ree, Stephanie Vaughn, Rodney Ray Ellis (Chasity). Eleven great grandchildren: M’Chelle Eldora Allen, Colin Malik Allen, Destiny Smalls, Joman Javell Allen, Jalen Jonathan Surles, Kalen Marie Surles, Brooklyn A’Minia Surles, Gisele Ann Ellis, Gelani Rae Ellis, Gabrielle Marie Ellis, and Colin James Ray Ellis. Also, a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Isaiah Allen October 4 1925 January 15 2022.
Heard and Taylor Family Funeral Home
Death notice for the town of: Detroit, state: Michigan