Charles V Allen

Charles Vernon Allen was born on May 2, 1933, in Kansas City, Kansas, to John Irvin and Laverta Hull Allen. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents; and Corine Allen, who he affectionately called “mother,”; three brothers, Clarence, William, and Floyd Allen; daughters: Cidrena Spates Smith and Lisa Lynette Allen; grandson, Christian Allen; granddaughter, Brandi Allen; and his former wife, Betty Marshall Allen-Gray.

During the Korean War era, Charles proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany, where he served as a paratrooper and personnel clerk. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1957, marking the end of his military service but not his lifelong pride in serving others.

Charles had a deep love for music and dance, with Jazz, Gospel, and R&B among his favorites. He was also an avid reader who valued learning and knowledge. Charles was the first to admit he was loquacious, his love of conversation meant he truly never met a stranger. He had a genuine love for people and a natural gift for connecting with them. Always willing to share his knowledge, he sought to see the best in others and generously offered words of wisdom. He often credited three men who greatly influenced his life: his father, John Irvin Allen; his godfather, Albert Doxie; and his former father-in-law, Frederick Marshall.

One of his favorite mottos was, “Jack of all trades, master of none,” a phrase that perfectly reflected his wide range of talents and interests. His greatest enjoyment came from overhauling and repairing vehicles, appliances, and electronics. A particularly memorable accomplishment was restoring his 1950s Studebaker using a mix of Ford and Studebaker body parts. Though the car had a distinctive appearance, it rode and drove exceptionally well, a true reflection of Charles’ ingenuity, resilience, and determination.

Charles especially cherished meaningful conversations with close family members, including his special cousins Arlene Jones of Nevada, Minola Jean Drow of Florida and Derek Allen of Indiana. He fondly recalled the good times shared with friends through long conversations, laughter, partying, roller-skating, and sharing memories with lifelong friends such as his teenage best friend, Kenneth “Kenn” Walker of Corona, California, and longtime friend Joseph “Joe” Davis of Highland, Indiana. He was also passionate about staying connected with his Niles High School Class of 1953 classmates and took great joy in conversations with his old pal William “Bill” Hartman of Buchanan, MI.  Additionally, he treasured the friendships formed with his former Riley High School coworkers—Tony Coleman, R.C. Moore, Linda Lewis, and Pat Benman—each of whom brought him great joy.

Those who will forever cherish, love, and honor his legacy include his adorable sister Sheila L. Arnold of New Albany, IN; daughters: Angela Allen of South Bend, IN, and Christy Allen of Kokomo, IN; his sons: Zachary Todd (Lynne) Allen of Niles, MI, and Keith Sutton of South Bend, IN; his grandchildren: Tykire Mulherion, Kisha Phillips, and Anthony Smith Jr. of South Bend, IN; Erica Allen, and Vaughn Allen of Indianapolis, IN; Steven Allen, and Zachary Allen, Jr of Kokomo, IN; Nikkolas Allen of Lafayette, IN, Elijiah Kelly of Niles, MI,  and 24 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Shirley Allen of San Antonio, TX, his former wife Vanessa Sutton Allen of South Bend, IN. and a host of relatives and friends.

Charles Vernon Allen lived a life rich in conversation, service, learning, and love. His presence will be deeply missed, but his wisdom, laughter, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Charles was a very spiritual person and enjoyed being a member of Living Stone Church, whom he regarded as family.

“His Lord said unto him, well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of the Lord.” - Matthew 25:21

The family of Charles Vernon Allen gratefully acknowledges your prayers, love, kindness, and expressions of sympathy during this time of bereavement. Your support has been a source of comfort and strength.

 Arrangements are entrusted to www.boydandsonfuneralhome.com where condolences may be shared. 

Service Friday January 9, 2026

10AM Viewing

11AM Service

Layman Chapel CME Church 

303 S. Kenmore St. 

South Bend, IN 46613

Burial Highland Cemetery  

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