Thomas J Allen

Thomas J Allen, 65, of Franklin, passed away at his home on Tuesday, February 3rd, surrounded by his loving family.Born December 28, 1949 in Detroit, Michigan, Thomas was the son of the late Donald L. and Virginia LeVoy Long Allen. He married Pamela Davis on August 1, 1970 and she survives.Thomas proudly served in the United States Army for 23 years and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. While in the Army, he traveled to many countries and had the opportunity to live in Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Korea, and travel within the United States. Also while in the Army, Thomas was awarded many decorations, medals, badges and citations. He was the recipient of the Army Service Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal w/1 Star, the Overseas Service Ribbon #4, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, the Army Achievement Medal (3D Award), and the Army Commendation Medal (4th/Cont'd #18). He was also awarded the Meritorious Service Medal (4th Award), the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Parachute Badge, the Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge, and the Legion of Merit Badge. Thomas obtained his Masters Degree from Central Michigan University. He was the HR Director at Vision Quest for more than 10 years, and retired as the Director of FICDA in Franklin after working there for 10 years. He enjoyed running (he ran 3 full marathons), reading, watching his grandchildren play sports, and spending time with his family.In addition to his wife, Pam, Thomas is survived by his son Ty J. Allen and his wife, Terri, of Springfield, Virginia; his daughter, Lisa M. Lamberton of Franklin; and his 4 grandchildren, Amanda Allen, Austin Lamberton, Collin Allen and Jay Prettyman. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Allen and his wife, Patricia, of Michigan; his sister-in-law, Micky Styslinger and her husband, George, of South Carolina; his niece, Kim Fewless and her family; and his nephews, Rob LeMonde and his family, and Mark and Brian Allen.In addition to his parents, Thomas was preceded in death by his sister, Kay Beckman.A gathering of family and friends will be held at the Allen residence on Saturday, February 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. The Gardinier Funeral Home, Inc., 1315 Chestnut Street, Franklin will be in charge of arrangements.To send cards or online condolences, family and friends are invited to visit www.gardinierfuneralhome.com.