Mrs. Mary JoAnn Allen, 73, of Galesburg, Illinois passed away at 8:37 pm, Monday, September 15, 2025, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center surrounded by her family.
Mary was born July 27, 1952, in Jacksonville, Florida, the daughter of Everett and Hazel (Hood) Shepard. She married the love of her life, Darrel E. Allen, on April 17, 1978, in East Galesburg, Illinois. After forty years of marriage, he preceded her in death on June 10, 2018.
She is survived by her children, Ronald (Christel) Johnson of Eminence, Kentucky, Cody James (Jessica) Allen of Canton, Illinois, and Vincent (Beth) Allen of Dunlap, Illinois. She is also survived by her four sisters, Grace (Todd) Kivisto of North Henderson, Illinois, Bernadine Collis of Knoxville, Illinois, Lori (Randy) Hatch and Dixie Bell both of Galesburg; fifteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren with one on the way. Mary is preceded in death by her husband, her parents, her son, Michael Johnson, three brothers, David, Owen and Lawrence Shepard, her sister, Meredith West and two grandchildren, Jeremy Michael and Stephanie Michelle.
Mary graduated from Knoxville High School in 1970. She devoted most her life as a housewife, taking care of her husband and children. After her children were raised she worked as the secretary for the Salvation Army. She traveled around with Salvation Army dedicating her time assisting with disaster relief.
Mary was a faithful member of Harmony Baptist Church. Her favorite pastimes were crafting and painting.
Mary’s wishes were to be cremated and laid to rest with her husband, Darrel, in East Linwood Cemetery. Private family services are planned. Memorials may be made to the Harmony Baptist Church or Salvation Army. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is assisting her family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com
