Ernest A. Allen

September 10, 1930 - February 21, 2019

Ernest Albert Allen, 88, of Laurel passed away at his home on Thursday, February 21, 2019. Born on September 10, 1930 in Cambridge, he was the son of the late Norman F. and Mildred Eddy Allen. Ernie, as he was best known, was a Laurel High School Graduate and had worked in the family business, Allen Body Works, for many years. He had been a working partner during much of his 50 year career with the company. For many years, Ernie was a Master Sargent in the Delaware National Guard. His memberships included the American Legion Post #19 and Charity Lodge #27 I.O.O.F.,both of Laurel. In 2013, he received from the Grand Lodge of DE the Meritorious Service Award for heading up the United Nations Pilgrimage For Youth. He had coached Little League Baseball, refereed high school football and was a former school board member in Laurel. For a number of years, he had served as superintendent of Odd Fellows Cemetery in Laurel, a position he thoroughly enjoyed. In addition to his parents, Ernie was predeceased by his wife, Shirley, in December 2006, a daughter, Terry Layton in February 2013, 2 sisters - Marilyn Williams and Mildred Boyce and 4 brothers - Norman, Earle, Robert and Jim Allen. Mr. Allen is survived by 3 sons - Jeff (Jan) Allen and Michael (Christie) Allen both of Laurel and Scott (Andrea) Allen of Seaford; a brother - Freddie Allen of Laurel; a son-in-law – Ricky Layton of Laurel; 8 grandchildren - Jared, Jenna, Justin, Sarah, Maghan, Max and Phoebe Allen and Steven Layton; a number of nieces and nephews also survive. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at 2 P.M. at Odd Fellows Cemetery Laurel, DE. Rev. Ruth Tull will officiate. A Memorial Service conducted by Officers and Members of Charity Lodge #27 will be just prior to the religious service. Memorial contributions, in Ernie’s name, may be made to Charity Lodge #27, P.O. Box 146, Laurel, DE 19956. Arrangements are by Hannigan,Short,Disharoon Funeral Home 700 West St. Laurel, DE 19956. Online condolences may be made to the Allen family by visiting www.hsdfuneralhome.com