Mark Edward Allen, Sr.

A Life Begins with Love

Mark E. Allen Sr. was born on April 18, 1956, to Raymond Udell Allen Sr. and Betty Jane Allen in Indianapolis, Indiana. Raised in a large, loving family as the fourth of nine children, he attended Riverside School 44 and graduated from George Washington High School. From an early age, his life was rooted in faith, hard work, and family.

A Foundation of Faith and Family

Mark professed his faith in Christ at an early age and carried that faith throughout his life. He married his high school sweetheart Diana Bettis, and together they raised three children: Mark Jr, Corey, and Tiffany. Later he united in marital bliss with Denise Allen, welcoming their daughter Alicia, and embraced Tony Smith into his heart as his own.

When Mark’s children Mark Jr, Corey, and Tiffany lost their mother to breast cancer, he stepped up in an even greater way. During one of the most difficult seasons of their lives, Mark became an even more active, supportive, and deeply loving father. He ensured his children were surrounded by stability, encouragement, and unwavering love, showing up consistently and sacrificially in every way that mattered.

Family was always at the center of Mark’s world his children and grandchildren were his greatest pride and joy. He was a steady, loving presence who showed up for every milestone, celebration, and gathering always early and on time, always proud, and always with a smile.

A Lifetime of Hard Work and Joy

Mark started his years of service to General Motors in March of 1977, where he was a crane operator he was known for his incredible work ethic, leadership, and the lasting friendships he built with his coworkers who became family over the years. After retiring in 2016, he joined his daughters’ family business, A+ Childcare, as Director of Facility Operations and Transportation. The children adored him for his jokes, his patience, and the treats he never failed to share.

Mark was full of life and never met a stranger. He was a strong protector of his family, especially his sisters, and daughters. His love showed through his actions, his consistency, and his willingness to always step in and step up.

Mark’s sense of style was unmatched. At age 13, he began working a paper route and used his earnings to buy sharp outfits from Harry Levinson’s in downtown Indianapolis a habit that continued throughout his life. Always “dressed to the T,” he took pride in his appearance and especially known for his Air Force 1 sneakers.

Outside of work Mark had a deep love for music and was often the family’s DJ at the families gatherings, proudly spinning everything from vinyl records to CDs. Mark enjoyed bowling with his sisters and coworkers, playing cards with close friends, and spending time laughing and talking in his garage with his friends, a place filled with stories, jokes, and watching the “Games”

He loved cooking and grilling, and family and friends knew he could make a mean candied yams, along with his well-known macaroni made with spaghetti noodles. The grill was one of his favorite places, where laughter and fellowship naturally followed.

Mark also looked forward to his Fridays at Connie’s, which became a special routine he truly enjoyed. He was a true blue Indianapolis Colts fan and a dedicated Indiana Pacers supporter, cheering them on faithfully since the 1970s. Mark was already making preparations and looking forward with excitement to celebrating his 70th birthday, a milestone he fully intended to enjoy surrounded by family and friends. Mark was so prepared that he had already picked out and ordered his outfit and hat, because if there was one thing he believed in, it was showing up fresh and, fly,

Even in his later years, he continued to inspire others through his strength and resilience. After being diagnosed with amyloidosis genetic disease, he and his daughter founded a non profit organization called Change of Heart Inc an organization created to raise awareness about the disease and support families facing similar health battles. He was excited to be the founder and spokesman and to share his journey. His courage and compassion left an unforgettable impact on everyone who knew him.

A Legacy of Love and Remembrance

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, his children’s mother Diana and his beloved grandchildren Mark III and Asiha Allen-Freeman.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren

Mark Allen Jr., Elease, KaTyler, K’Veon, and Kaden

Corey Allen Sr., LaTasha, CassAndrea, Gariuana, Coricia, and Corey Jr.

Tiffany Allen-Freeman, Antwun, Ayona and Aubrey

Alicia, Timiyah, Ronald Jr., and Rayah

Tony Smith

He is also survived by his siblings Sarah Allen (Mary), Raymond Allen Sr, Pamela Allen, Deborah Carroll, Dwight Allen (Carmen), and Patricia Malone (Michael), along with his devoted Fiance Gloria Washington and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends who will forever cherish him.

Mark E. Allen Sr. will be forever in our hearts as a man of faith, strength, prideful, laughter, and love. A proud father, grandfather, brother, and friend who raised the bar for what it means to show up, give back, and love deeply.