James Blake Allen

James “Blake” Allen, a cherished veteran and beloved family member passed away on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Aston Park Health Care Center in Asheville, North Carolina, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.

Blake proudly served in the United States Navy, becoming a veteran of both World War II and Korea. His courage allowed him to participate in significant historical events, including operation "Bay of Pigs" in Cuba. Throughout his distinguished career as a radar and sonar operator, he dedicated 21 years to the Navy, earning an honorable retirement that reflected his commitment to his country and fellow service members.

Blake is survived by a daughter, Deborah Allen of Candler; a son, Mitchell C. Allen (Nancy) of Canton; sister, Virginia D. Jackson of Cleveland, Georgia; two grandsons, Michael Jason Smathers and Jess Allen Millsaps; and a great-granddaughter, Mackenna Smathers. His family will forever hold dear the memories of his strength, humor, and the love he shared.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Carl and Ethel Asia Smathers Allen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Eleanora Elizabeth "Tootsie" Parker Allen, who departed this life in 1991.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 8, 2024 in the Canton Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with Pastor Tracy Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Morning Star United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:45 p.m. until 2:45 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.

The care of Mr. Allen has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com