With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Kenneth “Al” Anthony Allen on September 28, 2025. Born on December 21, 1957, Al was a beloved father, son, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend whose warmth, humor, and unwavering love touched everyone he met.
Al was preceded in death by his father, William Malachi Allen. Al is survived by his devoted daughter Kaneca Allen-Jaramillo, wife Luz and his proud son Kenneth Anthony Allen II (Lil Al), who carry forward his legacy of strength and kindness. He leaves behind his cherished Mother Dorothy, loving sisters Cynthia and Rita, and steadfast brothers Malachi, wife Claudia and Taurus. His grandchildren: Kayloni, Genesis, Kenneth III (K3) and Thiri A’miracle, aunts, niece Jessica and nephews Micah, Jamill and Jayden, and a wide circle of friends that will forever remember his generous spirit and infectious laughter We All Loved.
Al’s life was a testament to being A Stand-Up Guy! With compassion, joy, perseverance and love. Whether sharing stories, jamming out to his music, lending a helping hand, or simply being present, he made every moment count. He had an undeniable passion for food -whether cooking up a storm in the kitchen or grilling on his many grills and discovering new flavors. Al’s dishes were seasoned with love. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A celebration of Al’s life will be held to honor the man who gave so much and asked for so little. Though he has departed this world, his light continues to shine in the lives he touched.
Aaron A. Cooper Mortuary
Love Restoration Christian Center
Vera Carithers
September 30, 2025, 8:18 pm
(Al,) Kenneth Allen, was the true definition of a “Friend” He had a larger than-life personality and was well know throughout his Progress Village Community He took pleasure on anything that involved having fun,he enjoying life to the fullest and lending a helping hand. My friend always.
“Let the work that I have done,speak for me ”
Your friend Vera Always,
,
PATRICIA DARBY
September 30, 2025, 10:49 pm
I still remember you introducing me to so many beautiful artist just like your self in music. When I played Kirk Whaulum, I always remember who first introduced me to this wonderful “Ascension.” Baby boy, you never have to wonder how much you were loved.
Scripture read… A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit (Proverbs 15:13). Amen You were always cheerful.
My condolences to the Allen Family.
Sabrina Saffore -Billups
October 2, 2025, 12:14 am
Sending our Deepest Condolences to the family of Mr. Kenneth “AL ” Anthony Allen, Sr.
Please, remember the smile and warm thoughts of AL forever in your Mind, Heart and Soul. From one Progress Village Family to another Progress Village Family. Love from the families of Mr Mathis ‘Tom’ Saffore, Sabrina Saffore -Billups, Anthony Saffore, Bridgett and Van Carswell Sr, Tammy and Eric Wheeler, Van B Carswell II, Ivanie Carswell and Eryn Wheeler.
Walter W. Niles
October 2, 2025, 2:19 am
Heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Allen, Cynthia, Rita Faye and the other family members. More than anything else, Al was a keeper of the community on 87th Street. He loved his mom and did all he could to make her and the neighborhood better and happy.
Rest Al! You will forever live in our memories.
The Niles Family
JEROME L GREEN & FAMILY
October 2, 2025, 11:01 pm
With deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the Allen Family. May the outpouring of love bring you comfort!!
Jerome L. Green & Family/Tampa, Florida
Kaneca Allen
October 3, 2025, 2:03 pm
Dear Dad,
You were always the one who gave it to me straight. These last three months were truly special—it felt like I was getting to know you all over again. You always reminded me to take a day off, to take care of myself, and reassured me that you were going to be alright.
You cared for your dad in his final days, and I’m grateful I had the chance to do the same for you. That last weekend together, we got to do two of your favorite things: listening to music and watching movies. I’m just sorry you didn’t get to enjoy your Ribeye. 😉
Saturday night—our personal movie night—will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s a night I’ll never forget.
Thank you for everything you’ve done and continue to do as you watch over us. I love you always.
Love,
Kaneca
P.S. Granny will be alright-we’ve got her. ❤️
Kaneca Allen
October 3, 2025, 3:58 pm
Dear Dad,
You were always the one who gave it to me straight. These last three months were truly special—it felt like I was getting to know you all over again. You always reminded me to take a day off, to take care of myself, and reassured me that you were going to be alright.
You cared for your dad in his final days, and I’m grateful I had the chance to do the same for you. That last weekend together, we got to do two of your favorite things: listening to music and watching movies. I’m just sorry you didn’t get to enjoy your Ribeye. 😉
Saturday night—our personal movie night—will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s a night I’ll never forget.
Thank you for everything you’ve done and continue to do as you watch over us. I love you always.
Love,
Kaneca
P.S. Granny will be alright—we’ve got her. ❤️
Marilyn Hamilton
October 3, 2025, 6:43 pm
Deepest sympathy to the Allen Family, Ms Dot, Rita, Cynthia and their families my Progress Village 87th Street neighbors. I will forever treasure the memories of our youth and whenever we met it was just like old times. Rest well neighbor.
Marilyn Davis Hamilton
Progress Village Neighbor – 87th Street
Brigitte Fedrick
October 4, 2025, 2:43 pm
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved Al. Though we will miss him deeply, we hold fast to the promise that he is absent from the body but present with the Lord.
We extend our love to those he leaves behind—Ms. Allen, Kaneca, Lil Al, Cynthia and Rita Faye, Mookie and Taurus, his loving niece Jessica, nephew Micah, Jayden and Jamill, his precious grandbabies, and a host of family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
May the comfort of God’s presence bring peace to every heart that loved him.
With love,
The Nealy and Fedrick Family
Mrs. Michelle Hall-Shabazz
November 1, 2025, 1:16 pm
Oh Al, I just found out that you left us. It has been many years since I have seen or talked to you. You was always an amazing Friend! I remember the first time that we met, you had me laughing so much. I enjoyed working with you at Medco, but what I most remember is you DJ’n at my wedding 25 years ago. Al I will LOVE you always. Sleep on my Friend, until we meet again. You were truly a Wonderful Person.
With Love, your Friend
Mrs. Michelle Hall-Shabazz