India Allen

Passed 03/21/2025

Born deep in the Allegheny Mountains of Pennsylvania in a small town called Leechburg was India Marie Allen; she transitioned into eternal life at her home in Harrisburg, PA surrounded by loved ones on March 21, 2025. Better known as "Honey", she was the daughter of the late Joseph E. Brown, Sr. and Agnes Brown (Williams). She was the fourth child of six and graduated from Leechburg High School in 1954. She was reared up in The Second Baptist church also in Leechburg. Honey was known for the beautiful smile and infectious laugh.

After high school, she made her way down the mountain and landed in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania where she would meet her husband, the late James E. "Duke" Allen. They would go on to have two children, Lori Ann and Brian. She became a member of The Greater Zion Missionary Baptist church where she would meet many of the people she calls family and friends today. She was active in almost every aspect of the church by belonging to many ministries. She served as a Missionary for 58 years beginning her service in 1957. She served as a Pastors Aide for numerous clergy members throughout the years. Ms. Honey or Aunt Honey, served in the Usher Board with the Youth Usher Ministry, the Kitchen Ministry with Dorothy Bond for many years, the Drama Ministry and too many more to list. She was employed and retired from the PA Department of Labor and Industry. Prior to that she was employed in the dental office of Thaddeus Phillips alongside his wife and dear friend, Marjorie Phillips. India was also a part of many social groups, most notably the Black Womans Caucus, where she was treasurer. The Whip-O-Will Club alongside her sister, Helen Sellers; they held monthly meetings and various community events in Hall Manor. In her retirement she donated countless hours of volunteer community service at different organizations including The Visiting Nurses Association.

Through these organizations and affiliations, India made an impact on many. Her closest friends lovingly named their group after her, "Da Honeyz". They were by her side with love, support and companionship until the end.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, James E. "Duke" Allen; a grandson, Antoine Allen; her siblings, Madeline Tutchstone, Joseph Brown, Jr., Charles Brown and William Brown.

India leaves behind her daughter, Lori Allen of Harrisburg; a son, Brian Allen; two granddaughters, who loved their Nana very much, Ariel Allen and Aunyae Allen; two additional grandchildren, Bryson and Bryleigh Allen; four great-grandchildren, Dominique Lewis, Jr., Orion Middleton, Azalea Shreve and Liliana Lewis, all of Harrisburg; a sister, Helen Sellers; a brother, Howard Brown of Apollo, PA; also a host of nieces, nephews, friends, neighbors and acquaintances.

Honey loved the Lord, her family and her friends. She will be exponentially missed by all who knew her.

Her life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025 in the Sanctuary of her church, The Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 212 N. Progress Avenue, Harrisburg with viewing and visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.