Born on June 15, 1950, in Mobile, AL, to Fearn and Jane Elizabeth Foster LaBan, Allen was a dedicated family man and a passionate car enthusiast. He graduated from White Station High School and furthered his education at Jackson State Community College in Jackson, TN, and Memphis State University in Memphis, TN.
Allen married his beloved wife, Betty “Diane” Gookin, and together they raised two daughters, Cherie and Kristen. For 42 years, he worked as a financial manager for various car dealerships, where his expertise and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
A proud member of the Antique Vehicle Club of Mississippi and Mississippi Classic Cruisers, Allen enjoyed sharing his love for cars with others. Allen was also an organ donor, a choice that he thought was very important and encouraged everyone to consider.
As a devoted member of Madison Methodist Church for 36 years, Allen enjoyed leading the Men’s Club meetings, participating in the SPRC, volunteering to deliver meals for VIP, and serving as an usher and greeter. His warmth and welcoming nature made him a cherished presence in the church community.
Allen is survived by his wife, Betty Diane Gookin LaBan; daughters, Cherie Lynn LaBan and Kristen Diane (Bill) Wilburn; grandchildren, Brandon LaBan, Janet Wilburn, and Tara Wilburn; brother, Lee Raoul LaBan; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fearn and Jane Elizabeth Foster LaBan, and his brother, David Michael LaBan.
Funeral services will be held at Madison Methodist Church on Monday, October 14, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A graveside service will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery in Memphis, TN, on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Allen’s name to the American Cancer Society at
donate.cancer.org or by phone at 1-800-227-2345, to Children’s of Mississippi at https://www.umc.edu/Development/Give-Now.html or by mail to University of Mississippi Medical Center, Development Accounting, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS 39216, or to Madison Methodist Church at https://www.shelbygiving.com/App/Form/204e5a32-3472-4321-b230-72007eb239e6.
