Joan Mary Allen

Joan Mary Allen never got over her fear of water. Lacking confidence as a swimmer, she panicked if her feet couldn’t touch the bottom. But, without a second thought, at 58 years of age, she embarked on a five year, around-the-world sailing expedition in a 32-foot boat. Forfeiting safety, comfort, and a traditional lifestyle, Joan adopted as her own the lifelong dream of her husband and best friend, Rex, and happily lived aboard the Tavarua for the next 12 years. Joan passed away at 101 years old on May 20, 2023, at their final port of call, Pensacola, FL. The couple arrived on the docks of the Rod and Reel Marina in May, 1991, and lived in a little house by the water until Rex’s death six years later. Joan remained in Pensacola, committed to visiting her far flung family at every opportunity, and tirelessly volunteering at the Haven of Our Lady of Peace. Her greatest delight was the care and devotion lavished upon her by her loving daughter Susan Caulfeild-James and husband Jeff, who reside locally. Joan was born in Hanna, Alberta, Canada, on July 8, 1921. Her family moved to Southern California in the late 1920s, ending up in Lomita. She graduated from Belmont High School in 1939. The next year, she met and fell in love with Rex Robert Allen, originally from Maxwell, IA, whom she married on November 6, 1940. He was the pride and joy of her life for 57 years. The couple had seven children whom they raised to love travel, adventure, and the great outdoors. Joan was a beautiful and confident wife and mother. She poured herself into her family and home with resourcefulness, energy, and selflessness. She never met a problem she couldn’t solve or a child she couldn’t tame. She was skilled in writing, research, sewing, drawing, singing, and—as it turned out—sailing. She was very much loved and is already missed. Joan is preceded in death by her husband Rex and grandchild Kyla Allen-Grant. She is survived by her seven children: Jerry (Connie) Allen, Paul (Cathy) Allen, Terry (Barbara) Allen-Brecher, Curt (Teresa) Allen, Susan (Jeff) Caulfeild-James, Pam (Chuck) Moore, and Janet Allen. She leaves behind 16 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren. Joan’s family is beyond grateful for the wonderful staff at the Haven of Our Lady of Peace nursing facility, who lovingly cared for our mom for eight years. Janet, Shay, and Millie will always be a part of our family. We are thankful for the many in the Pensacola community who adored her and prayed for her to the end. Our family will celebrate our mom’s life later in the summer—out on the deep water, exactly where she would want to be remembered. Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 S. Hwy. 29, Cantonment, FL 32533 is entrusted with arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.fcfhs.com.

Tributes

Joan Mary Allen

July 8, 1921 - May 20, 2023