Ray Eugene Allen

Ray Eugene Allen, lovingly known as Gene, age 91, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, January 25, 2025, in Grove, OK.

Gene was born on March 25, 1933, in Colcord, OK, to Ray Benson Allen and Gertrude (Hyde) Allen. In 1942, his family settled in the Mount Hermon area, where Gene grew up farming and traveling for construction jobs. At the age of 17, Gene gave his life to Jesus during a revival at Immanuel Baptist Church, a decision that would guide and shape the rest of his life.

Gene attended Mount Hermon School before graduating from Jay High School in 1952. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was deployed to guard the Panama Canal during the Korean War. During his time in the service, Gene met “The prettiest girl he had ever seen,” Georgia Ann, and they were married on March 14,1956, beginning a beautiful life together.

Gene dreamed of owning land and starting a farm, and he and Georgia built that dream into a reality. They welcomed two children, Rhonda and Randy, and traveled the country as Gene worked as a superintendent in ironwork construction for Textstar, including overseeing the building of the Flagship Hotel in Galveston, Texas. In the late 1960s, Gene and Georgia purchased land east of Jay, OK, where they built poultry houses and began farming.

In 1971, Gene committed to farming full-time, and in 1978, his son Randy joined him to work side by side. Together for 46 years, they built a family legacy of farming wheat, soybeans, green beans, hay, along with a trucking business. They had cattle, chicken houses, and raised a variety of farm animals including, hogs, sheep, and dairy cows throughout the years. 

Gene and Georgia shared a passion for travel, exploring the United States in their RV with family and friends. Gene cherished time with his children and grandchildren, attending their athletic events and gathering for family dinners. He loved spending time with his adoring daughter, Rhonda, she brought so much joy and care to his life. Gene cherished his time working alongside his son, Randy and the friendship and special bond they shared. 

Gene served on various boards including being the Mount Hermon Church Board President, Mount Hermon Sunday School Superintendent, Delaware County Fair Board and Farm Bureau President for many years.

Gene dedicated his whole life to serving and working in the church, from construction of the new additions, sharing his wisdom, and making sure the church was ready for the congregation anytime the doors were open. He did all of this with a servant’s heart for the Lord. 

Gene is remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to his family, and the values of hard work and love he instilled in those who knew him. 

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Gertie Allen. His brother Harmon, his wife of 63 years, Georgia Ann Allen, and his son-in-law, Carl Palm. 

He is survived by his daughter Rhonda Palm of Jay, OK, his son Randy Allen and wife, Mindy of Jay, OK. Four grandchildren, Kali Palm of Grove, OK, and Chad Palm and wife Danielle of Tulsa, OK. Miranda Ward and husband John Henry of Grove, OK. Cassie Hampton and husband Ben of Grove, OK; 8 great grandchildren, Emigail and Lydia Barnes, Jovylin Ward, Blakely Palm, Gweneth and Locklyn Raye Ward, Evy Jean and John Allen Hampton. His brother Duane Allen of Siloam Springs, AR and his sister Myrna Burki husband Fred of Tulsa, OK and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Mount Hermon Church to continue the work and mission Gene so deeply cherished. Your contributions will honor his memory and support the church that meant so much to him. These funds will be used to provide scholarships for youth to attend church camps, where they can grow in their faith and learn about God. 

Gene Allen Fund    https://www.mhcjay.com/give/