Bobby Ellis Allen, Sr. of Virginia Beach, VA -  loving husband, father, and grandfather, went to be with the Lord at age 82, on July 20, 2017 in Zelienople, PA.  Born in Buena Vista, VA to Ellis Van Allen and Virginia Irene Rowsey Allen (both deceased,) Bobby lived the majority of his life in Virginia Beach, VA.  He is survived by Betty Bailey Allen, his loving wife of 51 years, along with four wonderful sons: Bobby Jr. and wife Betsy of MN, Joshua and wife Amy of NC, Aaron and wife Suzanne of, IN, and R. Bailey and wife Mary, of PA.  Bobby is also survived by seven precious grandchildren and a great granddaughter expected in August, as well as numerous cousins and brothers & sisters in Christ. 

A 1953 graduate of Oceana High School, Virginia Beach, VA.  Bobby worked for Colonial Stores, Inc. from the age of 15, until the company closed in 1979. From 1980-1985, Bobby and Betty resided in Buena Vista, VA to own and operate the Sonlight Christian Book Store, before returning to Virginia Beach where he was employed by Giant Open Air Market/Farm Fresh until his retirement. 

Bobby's passion and first love was serving the Lord and sharing his love of Christ as a pastor at Grace Community Church (Virginia Beach,) from 1995-2017, a church that he, his family, and pastors from First Brethren Church in Buena Vista, VA were instrumental in founding in 1956.

A memorial service and celebration of Bobby's life will be held on August 5, 2017, 4:30PM, at the First Brethren Church of Buena Vista, VA (100 E 29th St, Buena Vista, VA 24416.)  Bobby's son, Pastor R. Bailey Allen, a UMC pastor in Beaver County, PA, will officiate the service, during which, time will be set aside for friends and loved ones to share memories. A private burial of the cremains will directly follow the celebration for immediate family at Green Hill Cemetery, Buena Vista, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that Charitable Donations be made in remembrance of Bobby to: Alzheimer’s Association (https://alzfdn.org/support-us/donate/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2-vjyI-a1QIVixuBCh3UxwV_EAAYASABEgLmAvD_BwE),

 As an alternative, charitable donations may be also be made to: Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation, 105 Burgess Drive Zelienople, PA 16063 Phone:724-453-6014. (http://www.lutheranseniorlife.org/senior-living/giving/how-your-gift-helps)

 Service Information