A time to be BORN…Ecclesiastes 3:2

Mr. Willie Ray Allen was born in Luverne, Alabama on September 17,1937 to the late Parker O.Z. Allen and Dina McMillan Allen.

A time to BUILD…Ecclesiastes 3:3

At an early age he professed his love for Christ and joined Athens A.M.E Zion Church in Goshen, AL. Ray attended and graduated from Crenshaw County Training School in 1954. In the 1960s, he moved to Birmingham, AL. Ray joined 25th Avenue Baptist Church and remained a member there for several years. He later united with Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church where he served faithfully as Chairman of the deacon board. Ray loved his church and especially Pastor and First Lady Smith.

A time to LOVE…Ecclesiastes 3:8

On September 20, 1963, he married the love of his life Lodell Taylor. They were married 50 years, until her death.

A time to PLANT…Ecclesiastes 3:2

Ray worked at Stockham Valves & Fittings for 24 years. He also worked as a security guard. After retirement, Ray and his wife served the community as owners of Allen's Grocery Store for 30 years.

A time to EMBRACE…Ecclesiastes 3:5

In his pass time he enjoyed attending church, spending time with loved ones, grilling, and playing pool in his younger days. Ray had a very disciplined will and business mindset, letting nothing deter his goals. He will be remembered most for his sense of humor, the way he could raise devotional hymns, his spirit filled prayers, and his dedication to upbuild God's kingdom.

A time to DIE…Ecclesiastes 3:2

Ray answered the Master's call on Thursday November 13, 2025 in his home.

A time to LOSE…Ecclesiastes 3:6

Ray was preceded in death by his father Parker O.Z. Allen, his mother Dina McMillan-Allen, his wife Lodell Allen, one sister Ida Jewel Pressley, three brothers, James Allen, Tyree Allen, and Mack Allen.

A time WEEP…Ecclesiastes 3:4

Ray leaves to cherish his memories to his oldest brother, Freddie (Jessie) Allen of Birmingham, AL, his youngest sister, Beulah Allen-Caple of Luverne, AL, a God-daughter, Alice Luckner, her daughter, Rose Luckner, and her grandchildren; Tia & Jeremiah Luckner, all of Birmingham, AL, a special friend, Gwendolyn Dobynes, and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.