Isabel Virginia MacDuffie Allen

Isabel Virginia MacDuffie Allen, 89 CARLSBAD -- Full of grace and tirelessly hospitable, an extraordinary woman has left our presence. Isabel Virginia MacDuffie Allen passed away peacefully on Friday, September 17, 2010. Born on May 15, 1921 in Worcester, Mass., Isabel lived in Grafton, Mass., Philadelphia, and New York City before marrying Walter Ira Allen and settling in Orange County, California. Isabel was a loving wife and a caring mother. Isabel began her working career at The Worcestor Art Museum and co-authored Contemporary New England Handicrafts, representing an exhibition she helped to assemble in 1943. She was a talented painter and enjoyed painting scenes from her travels around the country. Upon retirement from UCI Medical Center, she became active in the community of Lake Forest, Calif., where a tree is planted in her honor. Isabel was an active member of Grace Community Church in El Toro and later, of Christ Presbyterian Church in Carlsbad. Isabel's passion for life, art, culture and people was infectious. After the death of her husband of 49 years, she moved near her daughter in Wellington, Fla. Unable to adjust to the climate, she returned to Carlsbad, near her two sons, and enjoyed many active years of retirement living. Isabel is survived by her children, Christopher A. Allen and wife, Catherine, Peter Allen, Angela Shaw and husband Timothy; ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Isabel was preceded in death by her husband, Walter. Always with a smile, she is remembered and loved by all. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com