FUNERAL HOME

Robert A. Waters Funeral Home, Inc.

2326 Jenny Lind

McKeesport, Pennsylvania

Troy Allen Obituary

On Friday, March 17, 2017, Dr. Troy D. Allen (56) moved up to the rank of ancestor. A native of McKeesport, PA, Dr. Allen was a History professor at Southern University and an adjunct professor at LSU in the Department of African American Studies. Dr. Allen was blessed with educational and life wisdom beyond his years. His passion for African American History and Egyptology touched the lives of so many. He leaves behind his wife, Lia White-Allen, whom he adored and was married to for 25 years. To their union, four children were born, Saiid, Khephren, Akosua, and Djoser. He also leaves behind his mother, Helen Allen, two brothers, Jeffrey (Marion) Allen and Todd Swindle, and one sister, Tiffany Swindle. Services will be held Saturday, March 25, 2017 at Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church, 9700 Scenic Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA. The viewing will be held from 9am to 11am. Services will begin at 11:00am. Interment will be in McKeesport, PA.

Published by The Advocate from Mar. 22 to Mar. 25, 2017.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Troy Allen

Not sure what to say?





a beautiful cousin of mine inside and out. always uplifted me and gave me wonderful hugs when i was feeling down. you are loved.

mia richardson

June 4, 2020

Troy was a man who was tall in statue with a matching personality. I became acquainted with the family when my sister's mother-n-law, Victoria Alexander (Mama Alex) provided daycare for their child. Spring 2017, he had agreed to allow my grandson from Harrison High School, West Lafayette, IN, who was coming to visit SU on spring break.to "shadow" him for two days. Unfortunately, it never occurred. So Troy "Rest High in Glory" for your work on Earth is Done.

BEATRICE ARMSTRONG-JOHNSON

Coworker

March 17, 2019

doctor that says a lot about you they do not give that honor away. glade to have the honor to meet a enjoy some great times at Point Park College with you you will be missed and be a mentor to all I wish I followed you my life my have changed

willie brooks

April 20, 2017

I met Troy and his lovely wife many years ago. I attended a dinner in their home with my then- husband who was a dear friend and colleague of his. I am so sorry for your loss and I pray that God will comfort your hearts and minds during this season of life. Continue to trust in the Lord

Yvette Goodlow

April 19, 2017

Troy was a kool brother to know. He was liked by all at Point Park College and will be missed but not forgotten by all who knew him. May peace be with him and his family. Noonie Peters Point Park College class of 82.

Noonie Peters

Classmate

April 19, 2017

We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Dr. Troy Allen. May God comfort you all.

Sherry Sinkler-Wright, M.Ed

Acquaintance

April 19, 2017

I am so saddened to hear of the lost of Dr. Troy Allen and my deepest condolences go out to his entire family. Troy and I attended Point Park College in 1978 and I will always remember him as a wonderful and caring person that always kept a smile on his face. His sweet spirit will live on forever.

Darene Scott

Classmate

April 18, 2017

So saddened to hear of the loss of Troy. We spoke 2 months ago and he was so happy. He was extremely proud that his son would be graduating from his alma mater Point Park University (it was College when we were there).

Troy was a good hearted person and he will be missed. My condolences to the family. The Lord has called his child home, but we that are left will have a piece of our hearts empty.

A group of his friends will be getting together in August in Pittsburgh and there will be a special moment of silence in memory of him.

Theresa Wickham-Smith

April 12, 2017

Troy was my friend and brother. I will miss him and his presence for the rest of my life. I offer my condolences to Lia and the children and pray that God touches their hearts as the mourn the passing of a wonderful person, husband, father, and role mode.

Marcus Cox

April 12, 2017

So saddened to hear of your passing Doctor Allen; I was admiring your academic accomplishments will always remember playing basketball with you at the LSU Rec, rest in peace in heaven, I'll never forget you

Jonathan Roberts, M.D.

April 7, 2017

It is so hard to come to terms with a loss like this. I met Troy in early 2000 when I was campaigning to become the President of the Faculty Senate. He was one year younger than me. Troy was a dedicated teacher; not many of his kind are around. Despite many constraints he did superb to advance his students. He was a positive influence to be around. I will miss him. Troy and his family are in our prayers. Go in peace, troy.

Sudhir Trivedi

Friend

April 3, 2017

It is so hard to come to terms with a loss like this. I met Troy in early 2000 when I was campaigning to become the President of the Faculty Senate. He was one year younger than me. Troy was a dedicated teacher; not many of his kind are around. Despite many constraints, he did superb to advance his students. He was a positive influence to be around. I will miss him. Troy and his family are in our prayers. Go in peace, troy.

Sudhir Trivedi

April 3, 2017

Dr. Allen will be truly missed. I have never refused to miss a class before his, and can even remember classmates bringing their children to his African American Studies class.

My deepest condolences and prayers

alexis smith

March 30, 2017

Prayers for the family. Pastor Sharon Robinson

March 29, 2017

My deepest sympathy May God comfort your family

Twinkle Wallace

Twinkle

March 29, 2017

Out Deepest Sympathy--Eyes closed in this life-to open in a new life with Christ!

Sharryl Henry-Kokoska

March 28, 2017

Love and Prayers to the Allen Family! Dr. Allen was a pharaoh of his time, always enlightening and encouraging on the history that makes us all great! You will be missed Dr. Allen. FLY HIGH- SOAR THE SKY. May the work you've done live on!!
- former SU Student

Wendi Williams

March 28, 2017

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. - My sincere condolences to the Allen family. ~Carmelita Sinkler (McKeesport, PA / Upper Marlboro, MD)

March 28, 2017

Words, however kind, can't mend your heartache, but those who care for you share your grief and wish you comfort and peace of mind. My condolences,

Oliver Dyer

March 28, 2017

Troy was a delight to have in the History Department at LSU. Always pleasant, always professional

Karl Roider

March 27, 2017

So Sorry for your Loss my Deepest Heart felt Condolences to the Entire Allen and Swindle Families

Cora Ashley

March 27, 2017

I was very sad to hear about the passing of our beloved Dr. Allen. I met Dr. Allen my sophomore year at SU (Fall 2001) and ran into him on a campus a few years ago for homecoming. I was amazed he remembered me after all the time that has passed. I believe he remembers me because we would always have a conversation about the little town I grew up in (Ville Platte, LA). Dr. Allen was very knowledgeable about African America history and really opened my eyes about it. I learned so much from him. He will truly be missed. My condolences to the family.

Yolanda Doucet

March 27, 2017

You have my condolences. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Andrea Place

March 27, 2017

Prayers and Condolences to the Allen family. Doug Nesbit

Douglas Nesbit

March 27, 2017

My sincerest condolences to the family for your loss. I pray that you have the peace of God that surpasses all understanding (Phillipians 4:6,7).

Maria Augusta

March 27, 2017

I met Troy when I was a graduate student at OSU. I just heard of his passing and I'm deeply sadden. I offer my condolences to the Allen family.

Sheri Anderson

March 27, 2017

Dr. Allen changed my outlook on being African American in the United States. He was so insightful and gave great advice. He pushed us to go farther in life.
He touched many lives. To his wife and children I pray that you remember the times you shared and know that his work is done. May God continue to bless you all.
Rest In Heaven Dr. Allen.

Vanessa Sanders

March 26, 2017

Dr. Allen changed my life. I attended Southern from 03-07. He was the reason I changed my major to History. I remember him telling me speak up, say what you need to. All my years in school I was told not to. I will miss him giving me advice and dropping knowledge. Mrs. Allen and children I just want to thank you for sharing Doc with the world. He loved you guys so much.

Betty Thomas

March 26, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

J

March 26, 2017

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

TAMARA MANN

March 25, 2017

I am deeply crestfallen by Troy's sudden death. I first met Troy when we were Black Studies graduate students together at OSU in 1992/3. I believe Troy was in the year ahead of me but he was around and a wonderful peer. Very sharp witted, intelligent, and passionate about his people. He was a Pan Africanist, and so very aware of his place in history. I will miss his presence on earth but I know his spirit will always be with us. I cannot imagine the loss his wife and immediate family are facing, and my deepest condolences go out to you at this difficult time. Troy was giant of a human being.

Sincerely
Mark Christian
Lehman College
City University of New York

Mark Christian

March 25, 2017

On a quick phone call to our mentor and teacher (Dr Asante) this evening, I learned about your passing into the realm of the ancestors that guide us. The grief in Dr Asante's voice was unmistakeable. I am still in shock and speechless. We run around so much and work so hard and leave little time to enjoy friendships. I recall your smiling face and warm demeanor. You always radiated genuine compassion. I know we will miss you. Wishing you the eternal peace and love you will enjoy in the fold of our fore bearers. Rest in peace dear friend.

Niyi Coker

March 25, 2017

My deepest sympathies to the Allen Family. Dr.Allen inspired me so much in learning my African history. He was a true historian filled with knowledge and shared that enthusiasm with all his students. Always had a contagious smile on his face. I thank you so much Dr. Allen and words cannot express the sorrow for losing a God gifted man. Rest in Gods loving arms and peace be with the family.

March 25, 2017

My fondest memory of Dr. Allen was enrolling in Black American history class my Sophomore year at Southern University. The class was 30-35 deep with women and 1 guy (transfer from LSU) we (the women) all looked around and knew exactly why we were there. Dr. Allen was smooth, handsome and intelligent and many of us joke that he was the best thing happening at SU lol. Rest on Doc, you were an exceptional professor. Thank you for your scholarship and may your Legacy on the Yard live in.



Brittany Lee

"Prof. Lee" on the Yard

Brittany Lee

March 25, 2017

I was a 2011 graduate of SUBR, a History major. Words could never express the impact Dr. Allen had on my life! He made me want to learn more, to dig deeper, and become the best I could be! Today, I have taught my grandchildren to write their names using the Egyptian Alphabet, they were so anxious to learn it! It was because of you, that I could do that. There were many debates in our class, Dr. Allen taught me how to take a stance on what I believe in, and how to feel comfortable doing so! He was the GREATEST!!! I know he'll be missed at SUBR!!!! Thank you Dr. Allen! May God bless your beautiful family, that you often made reference to in class. God be with you Dr. Allen!!!

Lynda Turner

March 25, 2017

Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.
Our Deepest Sympathy,
Sydney and Patrick Brown

Marie Brown

March 25, 2017

Deepest condolences to the family. We just lost a gem! He was an extraordinary person that has gone too soon! I remember when he introduced himself to the race relations class, his words were " I am just like you guys; I have a family just as all of you do." Very down to earth person. SU will miss him.

Trinda Stewart

March 24, 2017

Losing a loved one is very difficult, may God bless your family.

March 24, 2017

I am sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one.
May the family cherish all the wonderful memories shared together.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends, during and after these difficult times.
(Psalm 23)

March 24, 2017

I was Troys' roommate in college. We were like brothers. We didn't have much, but always had each other! He will be missed. Troy is GONEBUTNEVERFOTTEN! My condolences and prayers to his family. Leroy Snype.

Leroy Snype

March 24, 2017

My condolences to you and your family, Mrs. Allen.
Rosalyn Richard from Starting Blocks Daycare

Rosalyn Richard

March 24, 2017

My last two semesters at SU I was blessed to have Dr. Allen as a professor. I thought I was coming into his class with knowledge, but he opened my eyes to so much more. My condolences to the Allen family.

Katrina Golden

March 24, 2017

Dr. Allen,
Distinguished professor of History at SUBR moved to the rank of Ancestor! You enriched my life in so many ways. There I was single with five children moving to Baton Rouge, and my first semester you taught me Egyptology in August 2001. You helped to shape me into the scholar that I later became. I admired you then and now. Your lectures were thought provoking and your guidance and wisdom life changing. With many tears I will cherish all that YOU gave. God bless your beautiful wife and children. You were loved!

JoAunne Walker

March 24, 2017

God, be a refuge and strength for the Allen Family.

I met Dr. Allen briefly in Fall 2016.

Although we only met twice, I knew that all the love and respect students gave him was authentic. I was concerned that I wouldn't make it to Race Relations class on time. Everyone told me I'd enjoy the course.

When I decided to drop his class, he immediately expressed empathy and eagerness. I remember he said: "I'll work with you." It was as if he was non-verbally saying: "Are you sure there isn't anything we can do?"

I will never forget his encouragement, his passion, or his smile.

I didn't know that God would call him home.

However, he has forever impacted my life!

Love and Blessings,

Harold L. Millican,
Southern University
English Major
Class of 2017
Although I couldn't take his course. I felt his disappointment but he was still gracious and applauded my effort even though we never worked together.

March 24, 2017

Dr.Allen was my favorite teacher, who taught me everything about African American history, at Southern Univerisity.. My prayers goes out to his family..

Destiny Little

March 24, 2017

To the Famly of Dr. Troy D. Allen,
Our heartfelt sympathy is exteded to the family of Dr. Troy D. Allen. Weeping may endure for a night, however; joy will cometh in the morning. Dr. Troy D. Allen, indeed walked with the Kings of Our Ancestors, teaching us the true history of the African Diapora and Egypt. He indeed, was ahead of his time. Mrs. Lia White-Allen, and Children, you all were his 'Diamond in the Rock of Life', everlasting grandeur, love and happiness with you all the time, was well spent. So, Weep if you Must, however, do not, Weep as if you have no Hope. For, Tomorrow is Another Day, and 'The Sun' will 'Shine Again'. Remember, you are forever loved.

Elaine Pounds Thomas and Family, Student History Dept, Southern University A & M College

March 24, 2017

Dr. Allen,
You enriched my life in so many ways. There I was single with five children moving to Baton Rouge, and my first semester you taught me Egyptology in August 2001. You helped to shape me into the scholar that I later became. I admired you then and now. Your lectures were thought provoking and your guidance and wisdom life changing. With many tears I will cherish all that gave. God bless your beautiful wife and children. You were loved!

JoAnne Walker

March 24, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Trina Randall Parker

March 24, 2017

I really enjoyed getting to know you on the soccer fields watching Djoser and my son play. Troy I will miss you on the soccer fields.

The Bottchers

March 24, 2017

My prayers go out to Dr. Allen's family. He was the best Professor I had at LSU. He was an amazing person!

Kaddada Castle

March 24, 2017

Southern University & LSU has definitely lost a great professor. My thoughts and prayers are with his family & friends.

Carole Walker

March 23, 2017

Through his teachings, Dr. Allen changed my life in such a big way. He opened up a world full of rich culture, heritage, and history. My path to learning how to love myself started with his classes. My heart goes out to his family, and they have my deepest condolences. May he rest in Heaven.
LSU student

LaToya Burks

March 23, 2017

Dr. Troy Allen forever changed my life! Thank you Mrs. Allen for sharing him with us! He loved his family and spoke of you and the children often!! Rest in Eternal Glory KING! RIDE ON

Dr. Monica Fabre

March 23, 2017

With Heartfelt Sympathy...

Edward , Maxine, Marcus Robinson

March 23, 2017

So sorry for your loss. Dr. Allen was a great professor and will be truly missed. I am grateful to have met him. May God grant you all the peace that is needed at this time.

Pamela Livous

March 23, 2017

I am so sorry for your loss. Dr. Allen was one of my favorite professors at Southern. Please know that there are many former students who won't be able to be there but your hearts are with you. May God heal your hearts during this painful time.

Stephanie Duell

March 23, 2017

My heartfelt sympathy is extended to the family.

Cynthia Raby Horton

March 23, 2017

To Dr. Allen's family-
Doc was a gift to all who had a chance to sit under his leadership & guidance. So full of wisdom and knowledge - he will be sorely missed by everyone that appreciated and absorbed his passion for History.

Loki C. Ellis - Student SU/LSU

March 23, 2017

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Dr. Allen. He was the best professor ever. I had the distinct pleasure of learning truth about my people that I had not been taught. #AfricanAmericanHistory
SU will miss his presence.
#RIH

Jewell Ricard

March 23, 2017

With Heartfelt Sympathy.

Ginger F. Smith & Family

March 23, 2017

The Allen family has my prayers a great person to everyone and he will be forever remember in the Jaguar Nation circle.

Emily L. Maten

March 23, 2017

Dr. Allen will be sorely missed! He always had that beautiful smile whenever you met up with him. My prayers are with his wife and children, just know that there will a brighter day! Dr. Allen always had a smile on his face for everybody, he never met a stranger!

Ramona Bynum

March 23, 2017

Sorry for your loss. I Pray God give you comfort during this difficult time. I am a former student of Dr. Allen he was such a nice gentlemen. I learned so much from taking his class at Southern. He had so much knowledge.He will truly be missed. God Bless

Paula Ketchens

March 23, 2017

Hotep Brother Troy: May the road be open to you. May nothing evil meet you on the way. May you find the road good when you go in peace. Hotep

Eddie Hughes

March 23, 2017

Our prayers and concern are with you and family. May God's Word comfort you forever. Beatrice Armstrong, Office of Academic Affairs.

BEATRICE ARMSTRONG

March 23, 2017

My heartfelt sympathy is extended to Dr. Allen's family. I was stunned to hear of his sudden death! He often held his classes in the library and we would talk about his interest in libraries and how he, at one time , considered going to Library School. . He was a scholar and first rate human being. His wife, children and entire family will have to adjust to a life that was and is know more...! A life well lived!

Emma Perry

March 23, 2017

LOVE & PRAYERS to the Allen Family. May you find peace and comfort in knowing that all whose life he touched are grateful for the time we had with him. May his legacy live on... and may the work he started be continued. Ase! ...a former student

Claudette Smith-Brown

March 23, 2017

I'm so sorry for your loss. Dr. Allen was so down to earth and genuine, he will truly be missed by all who encountered him. LSU and AAAS will not be the same without him. I pray God's strength upon you all.

Lois Edmonds

March 23, 2017

Our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and students of Dr. Allen. May his legacy continues to be one of knowledge, hope, love, and care for each other. May your 'void' be filled with loving memories! The SUBR UCC Staff

ValaRay Irvin

March 23, 2017

I would like to extend condolences to the family of Dr. Allen. My brother, it was a pleasure to have known you. I always enjoyed our conversations. From your friends in the Admissions & Recruitment Office at Southern University.

Mark Young

March 23, 2017

We will honor your legacy with our life work my brother. Ase.

Darryl Scriven

March 23, 2017

Hotep Brother Allen: May the road be open to you. May nothing evil meet you on the way. May you find the road good when you go in peace. Hotep

Eddie Hughes

March 23, 2017

My sincerest condolences to the family for your loss. I pray that you have the peace of God that surpasses all understanding (Phillipians 4:6,7).

Maria Augusta

March 23, 2017

I am sorry for your loss. May prayer comfort you.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray constantly."

March 23, 2017

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family during this time of grief. Psalms 55 : 22.

March 23, 2017

You made a tremendous impact on my life that I will carry w me for the rest of my life. I will keep your legacy alive by teaching others what you taught me. I take great pride by considering myself "a Discipline of Dr. Allen". I pray to our ancestors and God for your family and love ones for strength, peace and blessings. Thanks Doc and job well done!

R Williams

Student

March 22, 2017

You were an amazing teacher. Your depth of knowledge was inspiring. I am grateful to have been one of your students. Prayers and condolences to the family.

March 22, 2017

My prayers and thoughts are with Dr. Allen family. #BestHistoryTeacher #SU

Doninetta Jackson

March 22, 2017

May the love of so many family and friends be of great comfort to you at this time.
Calvin, Belva, Stuart, Keith, Maria, Sean and Aaron White

March 22, 2017

Showing 1 - 79 of 79 results

Make a Donation
in Troy Allen's name

Memorial Events
for Troy Allen

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Robert A. Waters Funeral Home, Inc.

2326 Jenny Lind, McKeesport, PA 15132

How to support Troy's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Troy Allen's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more