Gerald “Wayne” Allen, 94, was born December 6, 1928, and went to be with his Lord and Savior on November 28, 2023. He grew up in the Brinker Community with his mom, dad, sister, and 2 brothers.
He served in the US Army from November 24, 1950, through November 17, 1952.
After his service, he began his work in the auto service industry by working at gas stations and eventually owned several. He met the love of his life, Mary Edwards when he filled up her friend’s car with gas and got Mary’s number. 99 days later, they married on May 9, 1953. Wayne and Mary were blessed to be married for 69 years until her passing in January 2023.
He eventually found his niche as a mechanic in the industry, working for over 65 years. He was well known for his honesty, integrity, and fairness in running his brake and alignment shop. His daughters were no stranger to helping at the shop, writing out statements and delivering them for him or handing him tools. The grandkids were able to work at the shop during the summer and spent many hours there. He loved having his family nearby.
He loved to garden, raise chickens and Red Hereford cattle. He was happiest when he was outside. He loved hunting, but his passion was fishing. He fished on many area lakes and even let his girls go with him and drive the boat and back the trailer. What a brave and patient man he was!
His family was his most cherished possession, especially his grandkids and great grandkids. His eyes would light up when they came to visit. He loved to make them laugh with his sharp wit or funny face.
As a member of Davis Street Baptist Church, Wayne served as a Sunday School teacher and was active in the brotherhood. He later joined Lake Highlands Baptist Church and was an active member until his health did not permit. He loved his church family dearly.
Wayne took care of Mary after her stroke and never left her side. He was quick to bring her things, aid her in getting in and out of the truck, and drive her to church, Whataburger, and the Dairy Queen, which they were frequent visitors. He was her feet and hands. He missed her greatly when she passed away.
Wayne was also preceded in death by his dad, George D. Allen, mother, Mary Clinton Allen, brother Kenneth Allen, and sister, Pearl Ebright.
Wayne is survived by his daughters, Beth Adams (Butch) and Roseanna Brock (Brandon). Five grandchildren, who are also serving as pallbearers, Cheve Adams, Nathan Adams, Zachary Adams, Brennan Brock, and Brylee Brock; fifteen great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. His brother James Allen (Nell), and sister-in-law Dorothy Edwards. Also survived by multiple nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
Wayne was blessed to have wonderful care from Choice Hospice during his last days, especially from Terisa, Emma, and Michaela, and for that, the family is deeply grateful.
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord the righteous Judge, will give to me on that day and not to me only but also to all who have loved his appearing.”
II Timothy 4: 7-8
