Marlena Allen

Marlena Nicole Allen, affectionately known as Marv, passed away on July 10, 2024, at the age of 55 in Charleston, SC following a lengthy illness. Born on May 6, 1969, in Newark, New Jersey, Marlena was a beacon of joy and generosity, touching the lives of all who knew her. We will forever remember her award winning smile and celebrate her in a jovial way as she instructed us all to do as one of her  last request.

Marlena’s early education took place at Battery Creek High School, and she furthered her studies at Talledega College and Charleston Southern University. Her career was marked by dedicated service at Beaufort Memorial Hospital, and she was a devoted mother and an exemplary  military  spouse.

A lifelong member of Pine Grove Baptist Church, a place her great grandfather helped establish, Marlena was deeply rooted in her faith and community. Her home was a hub of love and hospitality, frequently filled with music, laughter, and the aroma of her cooking-a passion she pursued with vigor, often accompanied by jazz or an upbeat tune. Marlena also enjoyed dancing, entertaining and traveling.

Marlena was preceded in Transition by her father, Minister George K. Griffin, who when she was born, exclaimed: “I finally got one that’s dark like me!” She was the Apple of His Eye! She was also preceded in Transition by her daughter, Ti’Mara Allen; and grandparents Nathan and Marjorie Griffin, along with Florence Bennett and Ernest Ritter.

She  is survived by her loving husband, Timothy L. Allen; her son, Timothy W. Allen .; her mother, Mrs. Earnestine Griffin; siblings Tonya Griffin-Williams and Kermit Griffin; In-Loves Tommy Williams and LaShon Dean Griffin; Anna Allen of Shorterville, Alabama, Lessie M. Calloway of Dothan, Alabama Mattie Calloway of Midland City, Alabama, Phyllis Harrison of Eufaula, Alabama, James A. Harrison of Eufaula, Alabama, Rose Jackson of Philadelphia, PA, and Katrina Richardson of Atlanta, GA. She also leaves a cherished circle of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Christina Bradham a bonus Sister, and Life-long Friend, navigated seemingly immovable obstacles to further Marv’s care and comfort in her final days. 3 Nieces, Cheyanne Griffin of Charleston SC, Crystal Harrison of Columbia SC and Shamyra Vazquez of LaCrosse WI, were integral in her life.

A viewing will be held at 10:30 am at Pine Grove Baptist Church, located at 73 Pine Grove Rd, Burton, SC 29902. followed by a memorial service at 11am. Interment will follow promptly at 2pm at
Beaufort National Cemetery. .

In lieu of traditional remembrances, the family requests that contributions be made in the form of planting a tree in memory of Marlena;s legacy through Allen Funeral Home. This gesture will serve as a living tribute to her vibrant spirit and enduring impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marlena Allen, please visit our floral store.