Johnnie Dale Allen

Johnnie Dale Allen (aka J.D. or John Allen) passed away peacefully in the early morning on August 2, 2024 after months of serious health concerns. He was 81. 

Born July 27, 1943 in Cincinnati, OH, Johnnie was the youngest sibling of three sisters - Dallis, Della, and Cecilia. He graduated from Central High School in 1961, playing basketball for the University of Cincinnati and Texas Christian University. In 1972, he earned a Masters and PhD in Education from Xavier University. He also served in the Air Force and the Peace Corps, volunteering in the Philippines, where he got the chance to be an extra in the movie Beach Red alongside actor Rip Torn. 

Johnnie had a distinguished career as a psychologist, and in 1980, he moved to the Orlando area where he and his wife, Linda Richmond Allen, established The Allen Group, an Employee Assistance Program. 

Married to Linda for 38 years before her death in 2011, Johnnie was a devoted husband, as well as a loving father to Maggie. He was an avid Orlando Magics fan, holding season tickets since the team’s founding in 1989 and was well known among the basketball players for his passionate courtside commentaries. Johnnie had a fun and generous attitude, always willing to lend a helping hand and assist friends in times of need. He enjoyed eating out around Orlando, particularly Victorio’s and the Catfish Place. Johnnie also loved cars, Cincinnati Chili (especially Camp Washington Chili), and movies. 

He is survived by his daughter Maggie and son-in-law Matt Shaw, and many close friends. He is predeceased by his wife Linda; parents Maggie and Boyd Allen, and sisters Cecilia Ratliff, Dallis Stanton, and Della Keck. 

A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024 at 6PM at Carey Hand Colonial Funeral Home, 2811 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, FL 32806. The family will be welcoming friends at 5:30 PM. Johnnie will be laid to rest in Palm Cemetery in Winter Park next to his wife. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the ALS Association c/o als.org.