John Leroy Allen

John Leroy Allen, 77, of Yukon, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home in Yukon, OK on October 13, 2023. He was born on November 8, 1946, in Glendale, Arizona. John, also known as Papa John, was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. John is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Valentina Allen, and his sons, Matt Allen and his wife, Abigail Allen of Roswell, NM, Avery Gilliland and his wife, Dawn Gilliland of Bethany, OK, and Aric Gilliland and his wife, Rheannon Gilliland of Hinton, OK. He was also cherished by his 11 grandchildren. John was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Jean Robertson, father, John Allen Jr, and three brothers. David Allen, Jimmy Allen and Tommy Allen.  During his life, John served in the Marines for 4 years, exemplifying honor, courage, and dedication. John had a fulfilling career as an ammonia plant chemical operator. He also found solace and purpose in ministering to the brokenhearted. John was a man of faith whose devotion to his spiritual path was a source of strength and guidance throughout his life. In his leisure time, John enjoyed spending precious moments with his family and watching sports. These simple pleasures brought him joy and created lasting memories. The funeral arrangements are being handled by Yanda and Son Funeral Home in Yukon, OK. Their experienced and compassionate team will ensure that the final farewell for John is conducted with utmost respect and dignity. A memorial service will be held to honor and remember John's life at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, October 19, 2023 at the Yanda & Son Funeral Home Chapel. Family, friends, and community members are invited to gather together, offering prayers and support as they pay their respects to a life well-lived. May the soul of John Leroy Allen find eternal rest. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to have known him.