The four of us at Country and Annette’s going away party before heading to TN (Country, Brent, Holly, and Annette).

Country and Annette’s going away party before heading to TN. Country and Mike pointing out the baggy parts of my jeans that were the result of a lack of rear end.

Country’s Muay Thai fight in VA. This is the time he forgot to put his cup on before getting his hands wrapped and gloves signed off by the judge. George and I had the pleasure of having to put it on for him.

I am so sorry for the passing of John. I am praying for guidance and strength during this difficult time.

I was fortunate enough to be coached by Country, primarily in Muay Thai.  (And if you’ve ever held pads for his round kick—tried, almost comically, to mitigate the blow of that force with mere layers of vinyl and foam—you know it’s as if you were being struck by Thor himself.  But his massively, forceful strikes aside, Country left the indelible mark of a passionate and perceptive coach on me, as he did so many others.  He understood my dyslexia and was able to coach me so that I could understand, relax, learn, and improve.  (What the hell do “left” and “right” even mean?!  Turns out you get punched in the head a lot more often in training if you don’t know the difference.) Country was patient, perspicacious, and curious, and I’ve heard echoed, the profound and positive impact he had on others.  He wasn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of coach.  Country actively watched and listened to people, and when he saw someone missing the mark—literally or figuratively—(I can still see the way he’d kinda cock his head to the side when he was focused) he’d reflect until he could diagnose the issue at its root so as to truly help.  It still feels wrong using the past tense when speaking about him.  But I think his imprint of betterment lives on through all those he coached and who were made better for knowing him.  Love to Annette and family.

Margret Verna Galvan

Sending prayers to Annette, Kenny, and the rest of John’s family. To me John was a coach, a mentor, and a friend.  Easily the toughest guy I’ve ever known but he also had such a kind and caring side. John was there for me at my lowest point and even offered me a place to sleep. 
John is a guy I would follow anywhere. I’m so thankful for the time I had with him and will always cherish the memories and the impact he’s  had on my life.

John was a good man with a big heart. Will forever be missed. As a friend and training partner I forever grateful for his energy. 

I have been praying for his family Including his wife Annette ❤️

My condolences to you and your family. Words can’t express the love this man had for us as his pupils. And that love was reciprocated. Sending many prayers and positive energy your way. He made an impact in my life and will forever be grateful that.

Mentally preparing us for the fights that we’re about to happen. Wise words from this man helped a lot of us that day.

My first pkb fight. Didn’t believe in myself and john just made me feel super confident hyping me up. A memory that’ll forever be with me

Prayers for you Annette, Alan & Kenny, entire John's family, and friends. We know this is a difficult transition. We pray for peace and understanding in the immediate future, and for those surprise moments going forward when the grief resurfaces. John is now in complete peace and comfort, and we know that's the most bittersweet part of this journey. Prayers also to help you all endure the separation until you all are reunited again.

There are very few men that can talk to another man and look them straight in their eyes when they speak. One thing I admired about you is your ability to get your point across and never break eye contact. We had some early mornings and some late evenings and I wish we could share more. You sir are a rare breed and knowing you has been truly an honor.

OBITUARY

John Austin Allen

April 27, 1984 – November 8, 2023

Apex Funeral Home

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