Loyd Odell Allen

Loyd Odell Allen, 81, of Dawsonville passed away Friday July 8, 2011 at his residence following an extended illness.

Born March 21, 1930 in Cartersville, GA to the late Frank and Emma Allen, he had lived in Dawson County for over 50 years. Mr. Allen retired from the Merchant Marines with U. S. Steel after 44 years of service. A loving father and grandfather, "Papa", he was also preceded in death by his children, Michael Allen, Scott Allen, Kay Allen; great grandson, Dameon Konz; stepfather, Willie White; a sister and a brother.

Surviving are his children, Stanley and Vicky Allen, Dawsonville, Debbie and Tommy Lamb, Cumming, Otis McClain and Lucy Allen, Dahlonega, Tracy and David Britt, Asheville, NC; five sisters, four brothers, special grandchildren, Kristi and Kenneth Sanders, Tim Evans, Jr.; special great grandchildren, Megan Jespersen, Abigail Jespersen, Kenneth Sanders; other grandchildren, Loyd Devin Allen, Dana Davis, Alecia Britt, Scarlett Allen, Colt Allen, Gracie Allen, Elizabeth Allen, Ashley Albano, Tiffany Fister; adopted grandchildren, Brandy Lawson, Donald Butler; ten other great grandchildren; and the mother of his children, Wilda Pirkle.

Funeral services will be held Monday July 11, 2011 at 10 o'clock at Bearden Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Fred Enlow, Rev. Tommy Lamb and Kenneth Sanders will officiate.

The family will receive friends Sunday from 1 until 8 at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed at www.beardenfuneralhome.com.

Bearden Funeral Home, Dawsonville, GA.