John Wesley Allen Jr.

John Wesley “Bug” Allen, Jr. was born on February 20, 1947, in Burton, SC. He was the eldest of eight children born to the late John Wesley “Frizz” Allen, Sr. and Mildred Lenore “Sista” Glaze Allen. Being the oldest, he had a natural knack for nurturing and taking care of family. He worked for McCaskill’s Grocery store and helped his parents care for his siblings and the home. He did well in school making A’s, but his conduct was another story. His personality has always been unmatched to say the least. John attended Robert Smalls High School where he participated in numerous activities. This is where his undeniable love for basketball began. His sister Jannie can even recall him sneaking out of the house after his parents were asleep to go play basketball with his Uncle Neeley! After graduating in 1965, he served in the Air Force from 1966 to 1970, becoming a Vietnam Veteran. While serving in the Air Force, he also continued to hone his skills dominating in basketball as the “Terrorizer” on the Luke AFB team. Shortly after serving in the Air Force, John moved to Atlanta, GA with his cousin Josephus (Dewey). He began his career with Xerox and during this time he married Eva G. Tolbert, and they were blessed with two daughters. Staying true to service, his love of sports, and enjoying life; he served as a member of the Masonic Order for over 40 years, played for the Dekalb Superstars and Bruce Street Eagles for over 18 years, and still he found time to play basketball. John married Glenda Tukes on December 25, 1999, and they began their lives together in Ellenwood, GA. He retired in 2005 from Xerox, but had a love for learning, using his hands, and teaching. He received further education at Laurus Technical Institute in Decatur, GA. After graduating, he became one of their HVAC instructors until 2015. John later became an instructor for Fortis College in Smyrna, GA until 2021. John always had a place in his heart for serving the Lord. He was a member of Israel Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA and later Green Forrest Baptist Church in Decatur GA. He and his wife Glenda have been members of Trinity Worship Center in Ellenwood, GA since 2007. He loved his family and was extremely dependable, kindhearted, fun-loving and a joyful spirit. He loved helping others, always saw the good in people, and never met a stranger. He had a million-dollar smile to match a heart of gold. John departed this life on Thursday February 29, 2024. He leaves to forever cherish his life and legacy: His wife, Glenda of 24 years; Daughters, Monica Johnson (Addren) and Debra Nicole Adams (Samuel); Grandchildren, Khiaya, Markez, Keyon, Aniyah, and Michele; Brother, Richard Allen (Lavern); Sisters, Jannie Allen, Carol Allen, Gloria Allen, Doris Allen Rhodin, and Josephine Allen Beulah; Uncle, Herbert Glaze (Brenda); Nieces and Nephew, Frederick (Stephanie), Tiffany, and Amber; In-laws- Mother, Mae Eula Tukes; Sisters, Delois Tukes and Grezelda Evans; Nieces and Nephew, Crystal, Ta’Juan, Yu’Nise, and George; Uncles and Aunt, Herbert Manson, Henry Manson, Lizzie Manson and David Manson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. https://vimeo.com/event/4138352

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John Wesley Allen Jr.

February 20, 1947 - February 29, 2024