Rev. Colonel Riley Norman Allen Jr. of Sun City Center, a giving man of deep faith, completed a lifetime of service at the age of 81 on February 17, 2016.
For forty-four years he served his country in the U.S. Army Reserve, National Guard and regular Army, including serving at the Pentagon and on active duty during the Iran hostage crisis. Riley reached the rank of Colonel in 1983.
Combining his love of people and spiritual traditions, he also served his community as a Unity minister and a chaplain. As his many friends will attest, Riley always had time to listen and be there for those needing comfort and support. Riley’s lifelong curiosity about faith lead him to pursue a scholarly investigation of many religions. He connected with and respected people from all faiths and there was nothing he loved better than a deep theological discussion.
Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, he honed his accounting skills by working for the railroad for 25 years. Enlisting in the Army National Guard in 1950, he was commissioned in the US Army and National Guard in 1956. He once was cited as one of the most educated officers in the Army being qualified in three branches: the Artillery and Air Defense Corps, the Quartermaster Corps and the Signal Corps. Riley attended the Army’s Command and General Staff College to study Military Science and Tactics. He also completed two year programs with the Industrial College of Armed Forces and the Air Force War College.
Riley entered Seminary at Unity School of Christianity in 1980. For twelve years he served as Director of Promotions and Director of Development for Unity School. At the same time, he was interim minister in Omaha, Nebraska and Crystal Lake, Illinois as well as guest minister hundreds of times at churches throughout the United States.
Riley greatly enjoyed life at Sun City Center since 2001. He loved singing, the arts, great food and good discussions. His daughter, Vickie and his granddaughter Katie were the loves of his life along with his beloved dogs. A caring and devoted father and a loyal friend he enjoyed staying connected and involved with his extended family. Riley’s legacy will be carried forward by the many who he mentored, naturally giving them the encouragement and support needed to succeed.
He is survived by daughter Vickie L. Allen of Alexandria, VA and granddaughter Katelyn A Truscello of Chicago, Ill., numerous cousins, nieces and nephews as well as many devoted friends. A celebration of life will be held Sunday, February 21, 2016 at 3 pm at the Armstrong Room – Sun City Center Central Campus, 953 North Course Lane. 816 931-0212 The family suggests support of Riley’s favorite charities for cancer research or animal rescue.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Veterans Funeral Care.
You were one of the most caring and supportive neighbors we’ve ever had. You will be dearly missed, but I know I have another another angel up there looking after me.
The Roberts family has been blessed in so many ways through Riley’s suport. He was a steady influence through rocky times and a joy to celebrate with. We are pleased to continue our prayers and good thoughts for Riley and his family.