Vera Mae Allen was born in Goudeau, Louisiana on September 7, 1935, and was the daughter of the late Roosevelt and Vera Harper Wallace. She was called home to the Lord on May 30, 2026, while at Hospice of Dayton.

She lived a life defined by faith, compassion, humility, and service to others. Her unwavering devotion to God, family, and community leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

For nearly 60 years, Vera was a faithful member of First Church of God in Xenia. She served as President of the Usher Board for many years and was honored to serve as the National Vice President of the Ushers Ministry. Through her leadership, guidance, and example, she trained and mentored multiple generations of church members.

Vera's life was a testament to her deep Christian faith. Together with her beloved husband of 73 years, Paul Allen, they built a remarkable legacy of love and compassion. Beginning in 1972, they opened not only their home but also their hearts, fostering more than 100 children over three decades throughout Greene, Clark, and Montgomery Counties. What began as a dream of having a large family grew beyond anything they could have imagined as they provided care, stability, and love for countless children from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

Their commitment to the community extended far beyond fostering. In 1983, Vera and Paul opened a neighborhood corner store in Xenia's East End. In 1985, they began distributing school supplies to disadvantaged children, ensuring young people had the tools they needed to succeed. Vera also founded the annual community picnic at Shawnee Park with donations collected by local businesses. This picnic became a cherished tradition that brought families together and provided joy for local children year after year.

In recognition of their extraordinary service and dedication to the community, the City of Xenia proclaimed Paul and Vera Allen Day during the couple's 60th wedding anniversary celebration. Though deeply honored, Vera remained characteristically humble, never seeking recognition for her good works. She believed in helping others and sharing whatever blessings that were received.

In 2017, Vera and Paul Allen were nominated by their grandson, Gary Paul Allen, and were inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame in recognition of their lifelong commitment to serving others.

Vera is survived by her devoted husband, Paul Allen; her daughter, Sandra F. Matthews; her sons, Gary (Tanya) Allen and Michael P. Allen; her grandchildren, Shon Matthews (Teresa), Gary P. Allen, Vera M. Johnson, and Michael P. Allen Jr.; her great-grandsons, Roland S. Matthews and Amari Bozeman, her sisters, Lisa Wallace Phillips (Terry Sr.), Tracy Wallace, Denise Hall (Kem); her brothers Patrick Wallace, Gregory Wallace (Melissa), and a host of nieces, nephews, adopted and foster children, extended family members, and friends. She also leaves behind special extended family members, the Quentin and Robin Walls family, Yvette Williams, Amy Harris, and her cherished church family at First Church of God.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Roosevelt and Vera Harper Wallace; her sisters, Olivia Brooks, Betty "Jeanie" Wallace, Carolyn Phoenix, and Betty Jean Fontenot; her brother, Samuel Foots; and her grandsons, Roland P. Matthews and Isaiah J. Allen.

Though her family mourns her passing, they rejoice in the countless lives she touched and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.

A life well lived. A heart well loved. A legacy that will never be forgotten.

A memorial service celebrating Vera's life will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Second Street Church of God, 760 E. Second Street, Xenia, Ohio.  McColaugh Funeral Home in Xenia is serving the family.