J'Allen L. Underwood

Obituary For J'Allen L. Underwood
In the heart of Youngstown, OH, a star was born on a bright October day in 2006 - J'Allen L. Underwood, with a passion for the pigskin that burned like a roaring flame. Known to family and friends as J'Al, his influence on and off the field was epic. On March 20, 2024, that flame was cruelly extinguished, leaving his family, friends, and community in mourning.
From a young age, J'Allen's passion for football was evident. Attending Chaney High School, the dedicated junior lived and breathed the sport, with aspirations of one day making it to the NFL. His relentless work ethic and commitment to his craft set him apart, always the first on the field and the last to leave.
Despite his fierce dedication to football, J'Al was known for his big heart and love for his family. He adored his mother and siblings, finding joy in preparing large breakfasts for his loved ones and always putting others before himself. His profession of faith and baptism at Tabernacle Baptist Church reflected his faith and values, demonstrating his kind and generous soul to all who knew him.
J'Al wasn't just about touchdowns and tackles as he also enjoyed track and basketball. He had an appreciation for rap music, liberally eating snacks, and watching YouTube while mastering the Xbox controller with finesse.
J'Allen was more than just a scholar at Chaney High School - he was a force of nature, ready to take on the world with a grin and a football in hand. His spirit embraced life with open arms– a true renaissance spirit with a love for life and people. He championed the spirit of a die-hard fan of the New Orleans Saints NFL football team.
His legacy will be sustained by his mother Nichelle (Victor Green) Floyd, father Allen Underwood Sr. and his siblings Ja'Mael Pierce, J'Ontay Floyd, Allen Underwood Jr., X'avion Leonard, Antoniah Underwood, A'lazsa Underwood, Cha'liece Underwood, Hassan Underwood, and Aaliyah Underwood. He also survived by cousins, Christian & Se'yonie Floyd who were like brothers to him, along with his godbrothers Marquell, Jesean and Prince. His love is also cherished by maternal grandparents Crystal and Glenn Floyd, paternal grandparents Ellen Underwood and Ira Ephraim Underwood, an adoring niece ZaViah Pierce, his favorite uncle Corey and a score of family and friends which is too expansive to be singly named.
May we find solace in the memories we hold of J'Allen, a young man who touched the lives of many with his infectious spirit and genuine love for all. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and cherished him.
As we gather to celebrate J'Allen's life, let's remember the joy he brought to us all. On Wednesday April 3, 2024, a public viewing will welcome those who wish to pay their respects at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 707 Arlington Street, at 10:00 am, followed by a Celebration of His Life service at 11:00 am, officiated by Pastor Raymond Austin, which will honor J'Allen's memory.
At the conclusion of the services, J'Al will be laid to rest at the Belmont Park Cemetery, 3346 Belmont Ave, Youngstown, OH. Let's hold onto the laughter, the dreams, and the love that J'Allen shared with us. Though his time with us was cut short, his light will shine in the hearts of many to offer guidance through the darkest nights. Rest easy, J'Allen, your legacy will never fade.
The family of J'Allen "J'Al" L. Underwood elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort and After-Care Arrangements to J.E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown, OH, 330-782-8500. Send flowers to the service of J'Allen L. Underwood Download funeral program