Lester Allen

Lester Allen passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 24, 2023, after a prolonged illness. Even during his last days, he remained a brave and courageous person.
Lester attended Passaic High School and graduated in 1966. He later attended Wilberforce University in Ohio, where he studied journalism.
For 35 years, he worked for the New York Times, where he advanced to copy editor for financial news. After retiring from the NY Times, Lester joined ITT, which was later renamed Exelis, in Clifton, NJ. He retired permanently in 2022 to enjoy his free time.
Lester was an active member of Union Baptist Church in Passaic, NJ, for over 35 years. He served as a Deacon, Assistant Leader in Sunday School, and was proud to lend his voice to the male chorus. His favorite hymn was "Hold On To God's Unchanging Hand."
In March 2014, he was honored at the 'Sweetheart Gala' for his commitment to Union Baptist Church. In 2018, the congregation presented Lester with the esteemed 'Deacon Lester Allen Emeritus Award.' In 2023, Lester and Jendene joined St. Paul Baptist Church in Montclair, NJ, under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Bernadette Glover.
As a young man, Lester was a member of the 'Conservative Five Social Club' along with Richard McCormick, Melvin Carter, Roland Moss, and Bobby Tomlinson. He valued his friendships with Ronnie Smith, Jerry Monroe, and Dartez Scott.
Lester and Jendene enjoyed going on adventurous trips to Europe, taking numerous Caribbean cruises, and visiting Martha's Vineyard. Lester was a devoted fan of the New York Giants football team, and he loved running in nearby Brookdale Park.
He was preceded in death by his father, Tosca, and mother, Florence, as well as Craig Allen, Tosca Allen Jr., and a sister, Rosemary Gibson.
Lester is survived by his loving wife, Jendene, with whom he shared a devoted union of fifty years. He is also survived by two sisters, Shirley Newton and Elaine Carter; two brothers, Stephen Allen and Bart Allen. Lester will be deeply missed by Aunt Ella Hansford, Aunt JoAnn White, a host of nieces and nephews, and countless friends.
Lester was a proud person of integrity, grace, dignity, and courage. Although we grieve his loss, we must find comfort in Rev 14:13, which says, "I heard a voice from heaven say, 'Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.' Yes,' said the Spirit, 'let them find rest from their labors, for their works accompany them."