Richard A. Allen, Sr.

Richard “Dick” Allen Sr. passed away on May 24, 2025, at the age of 97. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. Richard was born September 11, 1927, in Connecticut.

Unfortunately, his parents died in a car accident when Richard was an infant and he was placed in an orphanage, where he lived until his was 18 years old. Richard then moved to New York City and joined the Navy in 1945, stationed in Jacksonville Florida.

In 1947, he met the love of his life, Norma Dickey at a school dance when he was home on leave from the Navy. They were married in 1948, and the rest is history. Richard worked at General Motors and retired after 33 years of service. After retirement, Richard and Norma purchased their own business “Allen Heaters” where they worked side by side for 14 years. In 1981 they decided to retire and moved to Broadkill Beach. They enjoyed their life together meeting many friends and great neighbors. Richard belonged to Richardson Park United Methodist Church where he was a lifetime member.

He is predeceased in death by his beloved wife of 76 years, Norma Allen, his son Douglass Allen, sister and brother-in-law Patricia and Vic, sister-in-law Ruth, and Elizabeth and Rubin Hutt. Richard is survived by his children Richard A. Allen, Jr. and Deborah Freebery, brother-in-law David Dickey, grandchildren Dana, Ryan (Erin), Daniel (Sarah), Eric, Erin (Joe) and 8 great grandchildren, James, Kelliann, Freya, Tripp, Declan, Olivia, Drew and a baby on the way. 

Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal Street, Milton, DE and a time of Visitation will begin at 11:00. Interment will be in the Henlopen Memorial Park, Milton, DE. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. BOX 96011, Washington, DE 20090-6011. Online condolences are welcome for the family at www.shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.