Charles Claybourne Allen

Charles Claybourne Allen obituary, LISLE, IL

Charles Claybourne Allen

Charles Allen Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 23, 2017.
LISLE, IL - Charles Claybourne Allen, a longtime resident of Lisle, IL, and Newport News, VA, passed away on January 20, at the age of 81. Mr. Allen lived a full life marked by a strong devotion to family, friends, and public service. He was highly principled, rigorously analytical, and ingeniously pragmatic; Mr Allen was much sought for his counsel and is dearly missed. He was the third child of John Christopher Allen, Jr, and Margaret B Colvert Allen. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Dr Sallie M Tucker-Allen, and his three children: Charles Claybourne Allen, II, John Christopher Allen, IV, and Sallie Monique Allen Symons. He is also survived by three cherished grandchildren - Lindsey Margaret Allen, Cecilia Louise Allen, and Nathaniel Claybourne Tucker Allen - and treasured siblings John Christopher Allen, III, Beverly Ann Allen Henderson, and Lynne Colvert Allen. Mr Allen graduated from Hampton University in 1958, then served in the U.S. Army based at Fort Hood, leaving the service as a Captain. In 1963, he earned a Master of Science in Urban Planning from Columbia University School of Architecture. After graduate school, Mr Allen joined Clarke & Rapuano where he executed urban and community renewal programs. In 1968, as the Director of Planning & Development for Gary, IN, Mr Allen developed the prototype for the Community Development Block Grant, which is now commonly used in cities across the country. After his tenure in Gary, he spent two years in North Carolina as General Manager of Soul City, a new town development corporation. In 1975, Mr Allen returned to the Chicago area to join Wendell Campbell Associates as Vice President. He returned to his hometown of Newport News in 1988 as Deputy Director of Planning. In 1992, he was elected to the Newport News City Council as an Independent candidate. Mr Allen served as Vice Mayor of Newport News for 12 years. Mr Allen became a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners (FAICP) in 2004. He was a charter member of the American Planning Association (APA), serving on the APA Board of Directors from 1979-1982. He has been a lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, joining Beta Chi Chapter in 1955. Mr Allen was a longtime member of St John's Episcopal Church of Naperville, IL, where he served on the vestry including as Senior Warden, and St Augustine's Episcopal Church of Newport News, VA. A wake will be held on Thursday, January 26, 2017, from 3-8pm, at Unity Funeral Parlors, 4114 S Michigan Av, Chicago, IL. A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 27, 2017, at 11am, with viewing from 9.30am, at St John's Episcopal Church, 750 Aurora Av, Naperville, IL. The interment will be private. Memorial donations may be made to the Boy's and Girl's Club of Hampton Roads, Hampton University's Sallie Tucker Allen Endowed Nursing Scholarship, the National Urban League (www.nul.org), or St John's Episcopal Church Living Trust Fund (http://stjohns-episcopal.com).

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January 17, 2024

Joe Nickens posted to the memorial.

January 30, 2020

Herbert Harris posted to the memorial.

January 20, 2020

Someone posted to the memorial.

Joe Nickens

January 17, 2024

Chuck was very was very influential in my majoring in architecture and becoming a member of the noble clan of Kappa Alpha Psi inc. He was truly a BMOC (Big Man On Campus).

Herbert Harris

January 30, 2020

It was a pleasure knowing Charles. Charles was a very accomplished businessman and a good person. Regrettably, I didn't have more time to know him. RIP!

January 20, 2020

I met Charles in Chicago, IL for the Tucker Family Reunion. He was very kind and had a humble heart. He supported the reunions and family. Hugs and Kisses, Corrie Harris Nelson

Sandra Harris

January 17, 2020

I met Charles for the first time in New Orleans at the Tucker Family Reunion. He was a kind gentleman.

Bob Miller

January 17, 2020

This man made a huge mark on my life! I miss him and thank you, his family and the good Lord, for sharing him with all of us! 2 years seems like yesterday afternoon that I last spoke with him! Great man....

Sister Moneka- Hemby

March 14, 2017

I am praying for the Peace of God that surpasses All understanding to fill every heart that suffered this loss right Now in the Name of Jesus Christ.
Heaven.......I will miss Mr. Allen but each time I take my children to the Downing Gross Cultural Arts Center I will remember him, and whisper a prayer. I have given my young children an opportunity to meet and learn about Strong African American Leaders that made a difference in our communities in our lifetime. Mr. Allen will be greatly missed. His service and dedication has encouraged me to pick up and continue to help my neighbors and children. Teardrops........

Cynthia Hoyle

February 10, 2017

I knew Charles through the Illinois Chapter of the American Planning Association and had the privilege of getting to know him through the College of Fellows. He was an inspiration, a role model, and an amazing gentleman who will be greatly missed. His legacy will live on in the communities he served and the lives he changed for the better.

Please accept my condolences for your loss.

Charlotte Jones

February 2, 2017

So sorry to read about Charles' passing. My deepest condolences to the Allen family.

Corrie Nelson

January 30, 2017

My sympathy and condolences. I remember him speaking highly of his granddaughter at this past family reunion. My prayers for God's Love and Grace are with the family.

Donzell Tucker-Nimrod

January 30, 2017

Dear Cousin Sallie and family:
My sincere and deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved husband, Chuck. May the beautiful and cherished memories accumulated over a lifetime sustain you during this difficult time. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Herbert & Sandra Harris

January 29, 2017

With heartfelt sympathy. Love, Herbert and Sandra Harris , Pine Bluff , Arkansas

Clarence F. Nelson, Jr.

January 27, 2017

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. hereby acknowledges the passing of Brother Chuck Allen as he joins other outstanding men of achievement in the Chapter Invisible.

A great man and friend, Brother Allen served his family, country, friends, community, and Kappa Alpha Psi well.

Thank you Brother Allen for your life of service. Kappa Alpha Psi thanks you.

Clarence F. Nelson, Jr.
15th Eastern Province Polemarch
92nd Recipient, Elder Watson Diggs Medallion

January 26, 2017

Sallie and family please accept my sincere sympathy for your great lost.

George J. Brown

DOROTHY CULLEN OGUINN

January 25, 2017

My deepest sympathy to Sallie and family. My prayer is for the Holy Spirit to comfort and strengthen Sallie and family today and always.

Joe and Louise Nickens

January 25, 2017

John,Beverly,and Lynn,
Please accept our sincere condolences. Your friends,your schoolmates and your brother from your Home By The Sea.

Joe and Louise Nickens

January 25, 2017

John, Beverly and Lynn;
Please accept our sincere condolences.

January 25, 2017

We will all miss you and your friendly smile.

Love,

Franklin D. Dyson
Class of 60'

Margaret Ford

January 25, 2017

A HAMPTONIANS BIRDS EYE VIEW

The Hampton Institute/University family will greatly miss Charles Chuck Allen.
He was a long time active Alum from a Legacy family, parents, siblings (4), wife & son.
He met his wife, Sallie Tucker, at Our Home by the Sea.
He received the University's outstanding 20 year Alumnus Award. He served as president of the Chicago Chapter of NHAA Inc.
He & Sallie were Class Leaders for two Class Reunions. You could always depend on him to pull out his Architect classmates to our Reunions.
Chuck & Sallie hold a Hampton Endowed Scholarship.
Rest in peace Chuck. Hamptonians, parents, sister, classmates & Brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi are waiting to greet you Beyond the Hampton Reef.
Condolence to Sallie, Charles II, John IV & Monique. Brother John & sisters Beverly & Lynne.

Classmates of HIU Class of 1958
Margaret Ford, Leader

Al Riutort, FAICP

January 24, 2017

Judi and I are deeply saddened by the death of Charles Allen. He was a great friend and gifted city planner. Newport News benefitted from his vision and dedication and the city is better and more beautiful as a result of his hard work and commitment to good planning. He was highly moral and displayed great integrity throughout his career. We were fortunate to have known him,worked with him, and learned from him. We will miss him greatly
..

Vince Joseph

January 24, 2017

Sallie and the wonderful Allen family, I am so sorry to hear of Chuck's passing. I worked with Chuck on the city council and helped him on his first election. He did not need any help after that! What a great time we had together, late night meeting and than eating breakfast at 1:00 am, boating, gardening and eating healthy foods. He was a fantastic city councilman and friend. Even if we disagreed, we could discuss it agreeably. I learned so much from him and he made a difference; a life well lived. He will be missed by so many people. Peace to you and your wonderful family.

Randy Hildebrandt

January 23, 2017

I wish extend my condolences and sympathy to Sally and the Allen family. I had the pleasure to work with Chuck for many years in Newport News city government. I especially appreciated his support and council during my tenure as City Manager. He will always be remembered for dedication to making Newport News a better community.

January 23, 2017

Allen family please accept my sincere condolences to you all. As your family and friends comes together may the joy and memories of Charles soothe your pain. May the words at Matthew 5:4 you all at this time.

Gordon Gentry

January 23, 2017

Dear family of Charles Allen,
You and our Virginia Peninsula community have lost a special man. I admired him greatly for his many good qualities, including his exemplary integrity, his caring way, his sound judgment, and for his exceptional civic service rendered with a statesman-like manner.
All of you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time.

Linnea Matson

January 23, 2017

Dear Family of Charles,I met Charles at the Lisle Park District gardens. Whenever he was there, I got a lot less done than I planned, because there was always something I wanted to ask him or share with him, whether it was a giGANtic earthworm I'd just found in my compost pile or a political opinion or the question of what time of year do squirrels taste best (when I was trapping them out of my yard to relocate them.) I may have gotten less done, but I always came away with more than I anticipated, and not just the produce Charles would share. He gave me his opinions, his insights, his sly humor, his encouragement, his garden knowledge, his faith in the continuing perfectibility of our nation, his perspective on the news of the day. After a few years of these conversations in the garden, I told him once, 'You know, you remind me a lot of my dad." He looked a bit startled so I quickly added, 'Not that you are old enough!!!!' No- it's your deliberate thoughtful manner of speaking, your methodical patience, your quiet intelligence, your persistence in going at solving a problem or getting around a roadblock., your kindness and generosity. I'm sure I entirely embarrassed him! One summer when my mom (90) was visiting we were at the garden when Charles was there so I introduced her to him and after us all visiting awhile I said. OK, Mom: who does Charles remind you of? Why, ...HOWARD! she said. My dad. Family, I am so so very sorry Charles could stay with you all longer. Yes he had a long and accomplished life. But that's just it. A good man such as he is, he should have been able to live in good health and good spirits to 100 years. Because the world was a better place with Charles in it, and it is diminished now that he is gone. I will miss him very much. I have no doubt that there are many people like me whom you all have never met, that are grieving with you and cherishing the chance to have known Charles. Wishing you all peace ,and healing in your hearts,Linnea Matson.

Robert Miller

January 23, 2017

Dear Allen Family,
I am sad because this is a great man whom I need in my life, very selfish! We didn't ever agree on politics, but I would not trade a minute with him as a friend! He always called me 'Robert' when he wanted to make a point! I always listened to him! I miss him and do not think I will not miss him everyday! In life we are blessed to have friends and then we are blessed to have close special and unique friends. I loved Chuck Allen! God bless and keep you and know that I treasure my time with Chuck. Oh, how I treasure him!
Bob Miller, Virginia Beach

Beverly & Rederick Henderson

January 23, 2017

Our prayer for a life well-lived.

Michael & Vanessa Murphy

January 23, 2017

Our deepest condolences to the Allen family. We moved next door to Chuck and Sallie 4 years ago and they made us feel welcome immediately. We'll miss Chuck tending his garden and sharing his sage advice with a smile.

Daniel Lauber

January 23, 2017

I got to know Charles Allen way back when we both served on the inaugural board of the American Planning Association. He was a towering figure in the planning profession who continued to practice planning until the very end. I am incredibly grateful to have reconnected with him a few years ago at a local planning conference. Not only was it a delight to speak with him once again, but it led to working with his delightful son Chuck on some planning projects. My heart goes out to the entire family. Let us not forget that Charles Allen's was a life well lived. He made a real difference.

M.Graziano

January 23, 2017

My deepest sympathies to Charles family . I know losing a love ones is very painful.No words can express how sorry I am for your loss . May all of you find comfort and peace in all the loving memories you've shared together with your loved one.Please find comfort in knowing that God understands your grief and He cares for you(1 Peter 5:6,7)

J. B..

January 23, 2017

My deepest condolences. May the "God of comfort" be with the family and friends.

Mark Ailsworth

January 23, 2017

Dear family,

As a citizen planner, it was my privilege to work with with Chuck during his tenure with the Newport News Planning Department and City Council. He was a consummate professional whose knowledge and talents made a lasting impact on our home town. Please accept my sincere condolences.

Annette

January 23, 2017

Thank you for the years of great service and leadership Mr. Allen. You will be greatly missed by many. Praying for the family. Blessings

Penny E

January 23, 2017

My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Allen! Stay close to God in prayer during your time of grief. Romans 12:12.

January 23, 2017

May warm memories of happy times comfort you. May the promises found in John 3:16 be a source of comfort to you. RH

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January 17, 2024

Joe Nickens posted to the memorial.

January 30, 2020

Herbert Harris posted to the memorial.

January 20, 2020

Someone posted to the memorial.