Raymond Friend Allen, Sr., affectionately known as "Ray" or "Chef Ray," departed this life peacefully at his residence on May 31, 2026. He was born the fourth child of Carolyn F. Hancock and William Allen, Sr.

Raymond will be deeply cherished and forever celebrated by his devoted wife, Mary Jane Allen, and his loving sons, Raymond Friend Allen, Jr. and Marcus Alexandar Allen. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to his three granddaughters, Jada "JadaBoo," Karmyn, and Kaidence Allen, who brought immense joy to his life.

He leaves to honor his memory: his beloved parents, Carolyn F. Hancock and William Allen, Sr.; his siblings, William Allen, Jr. (Sherry D.), Sherry M. Wright, D. Wayne Allen, Phillip Allen, Sr. (Angela), and Marseia Allen; and a loving extended family. He will also be fondly remembered by his nephews, Blake Allen, Felipa Abbott, Phillip Allen, Jr., and William Allen III; and his nieces, Sherice Abbott, Briana Allen, Victoria Allen, and Bailey Allen.

Raymond is also lovingly remembered by his brothers-in-law, Bernard, Randy, Robert, Michael, and Ronny, and his sisters-in-law, Carolyn, Annette, Debra Ann, and Angela.

Raymond's legacy is further carried on by his uncles, Bruce Friend and Walter Trent; his aunts, Hilda Brown, Zelda Trent, and Betty Stone; and his cherished godmother, Louise Fisher. He shared strong bonds with his god-siblings, Beatrice Furlow, Carolyn Fisher, Burrell Fisher, Earl Fisher, and Costella Fisher.

A man who valued friendship deeply, Raymond also leaves behind his devoted friends, Rueben Johnson, Sue and Rick Young, along with a host of cousins, extended family, and friends who will continue to honor his memory.

Family and friends are invited to gather from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., Saturday, June 20, 2026, at The Half-Way House Restaurant, 10301 Route 1, North Chesterfield, VA 23237, to celebrate the life and legacy of Raymond. Because of limited parking and space at the Half-Way House Restaurant, we respectfully ask that you keep your visit with the family to approximately 20 minutes so that everyone has an opportunity to share in this time.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.