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Jerry Allen, 66, of Enid, passed away peacefully on October 1st, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was a fifth generation Garfield County resident, a successful businessman, a dedicated public servant, and a passionate community leader.
Jerry was born on July 12th, 1957, in Enid, to John and Jeanette Allen. He graduated from Enid High School in 1975 and attended Oklahoma State University.
Jerry had a varied career that reflected his entrepreneurial spirit and his diverse interests. He owned several Enid restaurants and night clubs from 1978 to 1992, including the popular Pepper Mill, Jerome’s Wine & Jazz club and J’s Lounge. He then joined the family business, Henninger-Allen Funeral Home, until his father’s passing in 2008. In 2009 he earned a securities license and started Allen Financial Services, where he focused on Medicare health plans and was still active until his death.
Jerry was also deeply involved in civic affairs and local organizations. He served on the Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association for three years and was active on the Tri-State board for 18 years as well as the Enid Park Board for over 23 years and the Enid Library board. His service to the city began in 1994 when he was appointed to the Enid City Commission for an unexpired term, then won the seat for a four-year term ending in 1999. Jerry won the Ward One commission seat again in 2019 to 2023. While on the commission he served on several city boards over the years including ERDA, CDBG, PEGASYS board, Parks board, several tax oversight boards and Keep Enid Beautiful among many others.
Jerry was a proud Enid representative in Washington DC Delegation and advocated for various projects that benefited the city and the region. He was instrumental in securing the water supply from Kaw Lake, developing the soccer complex, building the Government Springs skate park, and enhancing the Government Springs waterfall. He was also a volunteer train conductor for the Kiwanis train at Meadowlike Park and a master of ceremonies for many events such as Tri-State Parade and Spring Fling.
Jerry had many hobbies and interests that enriched his life and brought joy to others. He was an avid gardener who loved to grow flowers and vegetables in his backyard. He was avid fisherman, golfer and bicyclist who enjoyed riding with his friends and participating in charity rides and events. He was a Kansas City BBQ judge who traveled to various competitions and festivals. He was a Gaslight Theatre supporter who attended many shows and even performed in some of them. He was a Meadowlike resident who cherished his neighborhood and hosted many gatherings at his home.
Jerry is survived by his love, Fawn Lamb, his brother Bob Allen of Phoenix, Az., and sister JoAnn Edson of Titusville, Fl., and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held in the summer of 2024 at a date and location to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Our Daily Bread, Circle of Life Hospice and the Enid Symphony, three of Jerry’s passions.
Jerry will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, businessman, commissioner, officiant, and community leader. He touched many lives with his generosity, kindness, humor, and enthusiasm. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
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