Mrs. Alena "Bill" Allen

Those with high degrees are expected to change the world. But Alena (Bill) Allen with a simple completion f receiving a high school diploma changed the block of 37th Street as well as her community. Born to Mr. Martin Mayfield and Alzena Mayfield (Meadows) on September 17, 1925, Alena (lovingly known as “Bill”) began her journey. Bill married John Allen on November 22, 1942, to that union two children were born James Herbert Allen and Janet Ruth Allen. Bill was baptized at Concord Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Green. She later moved her membership to Bella Vista Baptist Church and given the right hand of fellowship by Pastor G.H. Nickerson. She worked on the Sr. Usher Board as well as being a matron over the Jr. Usher Board. Her passion was to greet and serve. In addition, she served as a Deacon’s wife for years. Alena actively attended Bella Vista for fifty-seven years until her health failed her. While being a homemaker, Bill was active in the community. She was a part of ACORN, which was a State organization that addressed the needs of the community. In fact, she was a spokesperson who represented the community of Independence Heights. She along with others, would go to Austin, Texas and rallied for the good of the community. James D Burrrus had a special spot for her because she was active at the school. She has held many offices in the PTO (Parents and Teachers Organization) as well as a leader in the Boys and Girls Scout Troops. Bill went to Nursing School and worked some years at Autumn Hills Nursing Home. Her tenure there was short because John Allen wanted her to be at home with her children. She did just that and she began a new path on her journey. She was known as the “tallest” woman in Studewood but that description went beyond her physical statue. She had “tall” faith and “tall” love. Her heart was kind and she never met a stranger. She turned 714 East 37th Street house into a home. The home wasn’t just for her family, but the residence was for anyone longing to receive unconditional love. Yes, this woman without knowing changed the climate in the atmosphere. You could not be around Alena “Bill” Allen without being “Touched by an Angel”. One of her joyous memories was when she was honored as a “Living Treasure of Independence Heights”. Even while receiving this award and being a member of the Independence Heights Senior Gathering Club; she was a life saver. Yes, she was a tall woman and a gracious one. People would find a refuge and food where Bill lived. Everyone knows that Bill would have corn bread and rice cooked as well as freshly baked cake on the table. Bill was missional just in her care for other; it was intentional it was just part of who she was.

Mrs. Alena "Bill" Allen

February 17, 1925 - March 4, 2018