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- JOHNSON CITY - Joy Lee Sechrest Allen, 90, of Johnson City, went to be with the Lord on June 8, 2023, following a beautiful life.
She was born in Johnson City to Paul and Alma Lee (Rowe) Sechrest. She was a graduate of Science Hill High School and East Tennessee State University and taught high school English, speech, and drama in Baltimore, MD and Kingsport, TN prior to her marriage to Dr. Charles E. Allen in 1956.
Joy was a gifted actress and singer, and one of the funniest people ever to set foot on a stage. Her acting and directing prowess were evident in many fine productions at the Johnson City Community Theatre and at First Christian Church, where she was a longtime, faithful member. She belonged to the Johnson City Music Club, the Washington County Medical Auxiliary, and the Shady Oaks Garden Club, and her beautiful flower arrangements often took first place at adjudicated flower shows. She loved to entertain and was a superb cook and warm and welcoming hostess. For many years she blessed numerous women through her classes in make-up and fashion and her clothing store, Joy Allen Classics.
But undoubtedly Joy’s starring role was as wife and mother. She and Ed were shining examples of loving Christian marriage and parenting. Joy managed a hectic schedule with aplomb. She took enthusiastic interest in the myriad school, extracurricular, and church activities of four children. She always had time to listen, and her counsel was wise and to-the-point. By example she taught life lessons in being grateful, generous, kind, and unselfish. There was a delicious home-cooked supper on the table every night. She made every holiday festive and joyous. “Gahghi” and her three grandchildren mutually adored each other, and she delighted in planning exciting activities and treats for them. She never lost her playfulness or her curiosity about learning new things. She always took time to let Ed know how special he was to her and how very much she loved him. Her faith in God was quiet and deep, and she loved and served him with her whole heart.
Joy is preceded in death by her parents and by the love of her life, Ed, her husband of 56 years. She is survived by her children Jill Allen Lagerberg, Charles Allen Jr. and his wife Barbara, John Allen and his wife Lesley, and Jennifer Allen; by her grandchildren Charles (Chip) Allen III, Wes Allen, and Carin Gunter and her husband Evan; and by her sister Gail Thompson.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the four wonderful caregivers who loved Joy as if she were their own mother and whose tender care made her last years peaceful and happy: Rita Snodgrass, Teresa Davis, Shirley Dover, and Jennifer Tipton; and to Amedisys Hospice for their compassionate service.
Family and friends will gather at Monte Vista Memorial Park, 1900 E. Oakland Avenue, on Sunday, June 11 at 2:00 PM for the graveside committal service.
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1932 - 2023 (90 years)
