The Seasons of Life…

For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1

“A Time to Be Born”

Larry Donell Allen was born on June 2, 1951, in Miami Florida, to the late Lewis and Eula Mae Allen. He was born into a home with love, and his life followed a similar accord, one filled with love for his family.

“A Time to Plant”

He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior in his later years and was baptized on May 29, 2021, with his loving brother Louis in attendance.

Larry attended and graduated from Miami Jackson Senior High School in 1969 where he excelled in the field of sport. He was an exceptional athlete who earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Illinois, where he went on to star as a stellar outside linebacker. He majored in Sociology and had a minor in Physical Education. On the football field, Larry was feared by opponents and revered by his teammates, who continue to speak his praises today. He was drafted in 1973 by the NFL’s Green Bay Packers.

After football, he worked at Miami International Airport as a Landside Operation Specialist for more than 10 years. His bright smile and big personality were on display at the airport daily, just as they were when he worked as a mixologist of fine spirits.

Larry served as a coach, mentor, teacher, security professional and advocate for education in the years that followed with the school board at Miami Norland Senior High School and with the Special Olympics. He was named Special Olympics coach of the year in 2014 for his outstanding work, dedication, and commitment to the success of his athletes. Larry retired from the school board after more than three decades worth of service in 2014 as a Para II Behavioral.

“A Time to Love”

Larry was united in holy matrimony on two occasions, once to Adrienne Morris (deceased) and once to Freda Jackson.

“A Time to Gain”

On April 18, 2023, the Lord called Larry home to join his heavenly flock. His earthy duty fulfilled; he transitions to take his place with God and family in the upper room.

Larry was one of four siblings. His sister Linda preceded him in death.

“A Time to Embrace”

He leaves behind to cherish his memories, one son Emory Lawrence Allen (April Allen); one daughter LaDona Danielle Allen-McCrea (Arturio McCrea); one sister Francina Bolden (Gary Bolden); one brother Louis Allen.; two grandsons N. Donnell Henry and Derek Bradshaw, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.