Kenneth Allen

Kenneth (Kenny) Allen also affectionately known as “Red” was born December 27, 1965 in Chicago, IL to Sadie Allen.  He was the youngest of seven, and was preceded in death by his mother and eldest brother Harold Allen.  Kenny made his transition quietly in his home, and has now been reunited with his mother, brother, other family members and friends.   

Kenny was educated in the Chicago Public School system, attending John A. Sbarbaro Elementary School  and Simeon Vocational High School.  Kenny graduated from Simeon Vocational High School, where he was a star athlete, and basketball player for the Simeon Wolverines under Coach Bob Hambert.  Kenny was a tower defensive player that led Simeon to the 1983 – 1984 Illinois State Basketball Championship, earning the team’s MVP.  Kenny loved basketball and the bonds made with his teammates Timothy Bankston and Bobby Tribbell just to name a few.  Kenny maintained those life-long friendships until his death. 

Kenny like his big brother Harold, had an entrepreneurial spirit. He loved exploring new opportunities, generating innovative ideas and working with his hands.  For the last several years of life, Kenny worked closely with his cousin John Allen,  as an independent contractor for Al’s Fast Service, who specializes in landscaping and snow removal. 

Kenny’s infectious smile and loud laugh would win anyone over.  He was “Sadie’s Baby Boy” and got away with EVERYTHING.  Although he lived a quiet life, he was loved by all he encountered.  His loving bond for his sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews was apparent and will forever be in their hearts.  He had an extraordinary bond and relationship with his cousins Gayle Gipson and Chuck Randle, with countless memories to cherish.  His dearest friend and love who stood by his side through thick and thin, Ms. Delores Frazier, a special thanks to you.  Lastly, a thank you to his forever community,  the “80th and Ingleside Crew” and his close friends/family on 74th and Vernon.

Kenny leaves to cherish his memories: two sisters: Gloria Allen Hodges of Chicago, IL and Marion Allen of Bryans Road, MD; three brothers, Gregory (Karen) Allen,  Michael Allen, and Maurice Allen all of Chicago, IL. In addition, he leaves to mourn, one uncle, Morris (Marlene) Allen Sr., of Chicago, IL and one aunt, Doris Allen of Chicago, IL;  two great aunts, Willa Perry and Erma Perry both of Michigan City, IN; a sister-in-law, Doris Allen and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In Lieu of flowers, the Allen family request donations to Books Over Balls, a nonprofit youth organization offering alternatives to violence, drugs, drop-outs and incarceration utilizing basketball as a platform to positively impact youth. The Kenny Allen Memorial Fund (KAMF). The KAMF will continue to provide educational and training opportunities for at risk youth in the City of Chicago. Make checks payable to: Books Over Balls, 7706 S. Saint Lawrence, Suite 1, Chicago, IL 60619.  Please indicate in memo section "KAMF"
 

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