Allen Leroy Payton of South Chesterfield, Virginia, was born September 24, 1948 to the late Mozell Payton, Sr. and Justine Wynn Payton. On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, God, in His infinite wisdom, called His beloved child home to eternal rest. Allen was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Modessa Payton, whose love and companionship remained forever treasured in his heart; his brother, Linwood Payton; and his brother-in-law, Moses Evans. Though Allen's earthly journey has ended, his legacy of faith, love, kindness, and faithful service will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Allen was born and raised in Petersburg, Virginia, and spent much of his childhood in Dinwiddie County. He was educated in the Petersburg Public Schools and graduated from Peabody High School with the Class of 1966. Dedicated to lifelong learning, he later earned a Bachelor's degree from Virginia State University in 1980. Allen proudly served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1971 and received an honorable discharge. His military service reflected his lifelong commitment to faith, family, and service.

Allen was a dedicated and hardworking man who devoted many years of service to Brown & Williamson, Inc. He later continued his career with the United States Postal Service, where he faithfully served until his retirement. He had a passion for fishing and found joy in playing the guitar and harmonica. Known for his impressive yo-yo tricks and his love of riding his bicycle, Allen embraced life with a fun-loving spirit and brought smiles to those around him.

Allen accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Petersburg, Virginia. Later in life, he united with Union Branch Baptist Church, where he remained a faithful and devoted member until his health declined. During his years of service at Union Branch, Allen faithfully served in numerous ministries, including the Youth Ministry, Usher Ministry, Men's Ministry, and the Diaconate. He found great joy in worship and spiritual growth and was a dedicated participant in Sunday School and Bible Study. His steadfast faith and commitment to serving God were evident throughout his life.

Allen leaves to cherish his precious memories his two beloved and devoted daughters, Keisha Deanes (Terrance) of Chesterfield, Virginia, and Alesha Journette (Greg) of Henrico, Virginia; three goddaughters, whom he loved and adored, Rochelle Lewis (Chris) of Georgia, and Eboni Gilliam and Amya Gilliam (RuChanda) of Chesterfield, Virginia; and one caring grandson, Justin Journette. He is also survived by two brothers, Mozell Payton (Renee) of California and Preston Payton of Petersburg, Virginia; two sisters, Wanda Simmons (Melvin) of Richmond, Virginia, and Estelle Payton of Petersburg, Virginia; two brothers-in-law, James Evans, Jr. (Velois) of South Chesterfield, Virginia, and Michael Evans (Margaret) of Chesterfield, Virginia; and four sisters-in-law, Phyllis Jones (John) of South Chesterfield, Virginia, Margaret Mason (James) of Chesterfield, Virginia, and Bessie Evans and Novella Ann Payton both of Petersburg, Virginia. He also leaves a devoted niece, LaTrezure Evans, who lovingly served as one of his caregivers. Allen was blessed with cherished and devoted friends, Carroll and Alice Collier, Julia Gilliam, Al Jones, James Brown, Butch, Rio, Paulette Belle and Hilda Lifsey; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, dear friends, and his beloved Union Branch Baptist Church family.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 P.M. Saturday, July 25, 2026 at the Union Branch Baptist Church, 11519 River Road, Chesterfield, VA, the Rev. Dr.  Gregory Howard, Pastor, officiating.  Interment to follow at the Union Branch Church Cemetery with Military Honors.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/6067544?fl=so&fe=fs