Obituary of Deacon Ernest Allen

Ernest Burn Allen, Sr. was born December 16, 1927 in Cumberland, Virginia to Willie Allen and Pearl Hatcher Allen. At an early age he was converted, baptized and joined Mount Olive Baptist Church. Ernest attended Cumberland Training School. Afterwards he moved to Paterson, New Jersey seeking employment. While living in New Jersey, he became a member of Christ Temple Baptist Church where he sang on the male chorus. Ernest worked as a laborer for a steel mill company in New Jersey. Several years later he became employed with Orange and Black and New Jersey Transit Bus Lines where he was employed for over 30 years. After retiring he relocated to Cumberland, VA where he reunited with Mount Olive Baptist Church. He served as a Deacon, sang with the male chorus and senior choir ministry. In 1949 he was joined in wedlock to Mary Ella Crowder and from this union four children were born. Ernest also served as Past Worshipful Master of the Integrity Lodge #51 of Paterson, NJ. Ernest was a loving, dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to all. We loved him and will truly miss him from church, home and the community. Ernest was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife: three brothers, Robert, Landis and John Joseph; two sisters, Pearl Mosby and Mary Shearn. On April 11, 2021 Ernest departed this life at his home. Ernest leaves to cherish loving memories: his children, Ernest Allen, Jr. (Anna) of Cumberland County VA, Beulah Scruggs of Hampton, VA, Vernon Allen (Cynthia) of Paterson, NJ and Regina Belton (Frank) of Hampton, VA; a special godson, Carl Jones, VA; nine grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild and a host of nieces, one special, Grace "Henrietta" Beard; nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends, and a special friend, Louise Robertson. "Going Home" Now the laborer's task is over; Now the battle day is past. Now up on the farther shore lands the Voyager at last. All the pain and grief is over, Every restless tossing past; I am now at peace forever, Only Remembrance forever last. And He came himself to meet me, in that way so hard to tread. And with Jesus arm to lean on, Could I have one doubt or dread? Then you must not grieve so sorely, For I love you dearly still. Try to look beyond earth's shadow, pray to trust our Father's Will. There is work still waiting for you, So, you must not idly stand. Do it now, while life remaineth -- you shall rest in Jesus' land. When the work is all completed, He will gently call you home, Oh, the rapture of that meeting, Oh, the joy to see you come.