Jack was born to Floyd and Clara Bauer Allen on July 11, 1940 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The eldest of three children, he received his Bachelor's degree in Philosophy from the University of Notre Dame and his Master's degree from Holy Cross College. After a brief time in Austin, Texas, he moved to Louisiana where he would spend the rest of his life. Jack worked for the State of Louisiana Department of Corrections for 30 years helping troubled and at-risk youth.
He and his wife, Alethia “Lea”, enjoyed fishing, spending time with their daughter Shannon and her family in Baton Rouge, and traveling to Chicago to visit their daughter Donna and her family. He was also known for his culinary talents. His cheesecake was often requested at family events, and his boiled crawfish were a highlight every year. He loved serving his family, and his dry humor and jokes will be greatly missed.
Jack is survived by his wife, Alethia Hall Allen; daughters, Donna Whalley (David) and Shannon Guidry (Dean); grandchildren, David Whalley III, Claire Whalley, Alex Guidry, and Zack Guidry; and sister, Donna Allen Dufek. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Frank Allen.
Visitation and memorial will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2023 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70815. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in his name to the St. Vincent de Paul Society or the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.
