Elaine Joyce Allen

In Loving Memory of Elaine Joyce Allen

September 10, 1930 – May 28, 2025 

Elaine Joyce Allen was born on September 10, 1930, in the Parish of Manchester, Jamaica, to Vivian “Prog” Johnson and Emma Anita Johnson. She was the second of 14 children, growing up in a close-knit and loving family.

Elaine began her educational journey at Devon Primary School before enrolling in Bailey’s Sewing School. From an early age, she became a self-appointed apprentice to her father, a talented merchant tailor affectionately known as “Prog,” short for “Progressive.” Under his careful guidance, Elaine developed a deep passion for sewing and design—one that would grow into a lifelong vocation. In many ways, “Progressive” became more than her father's nickname; it became her middle name.

Shortly after the birth of her first child, Elaine moved from Manchester to May Pen and eventually to Kingston, where she worked at Pandora Garment Factory and at Alice Limited Clothing Factory. It wasn’t long before her entrepreneurial spirit—nurtured by her mother’s example of shopkeeping—led her to start her own sewing business. With creativity and precision, she designed and crafted clothing, bedspreads, bridal gowns, and bridesmaid dresses, earning a reputation for excellence in her craft.

In 1970, Elaine married Claude Curtis Allen. The marriage was later dissolved in 1984, several years after she had emigrated to the United States in 1975. She settled in the Bronx, New York, where she continued to pursue her passion as a talented seamstress. In addition to her craft, Elaine devoted herself to caregiving, offering compassion, comfort, and love to those in need. Throughout her life, she found deep joy and fulfillment in caring for others and creating beauty through her work with fabric.

Faith played an essential role in Elaine’s life. She and her siblings were raised in Devon Baptist Church, where she served in the choir, using her God-given gift of singing. Although distance separated her from her childhood church, her faith in God never wavered. Upon moving to the Bronx, she became a member of Bronx Bethany Church of the Nazarene.

In 2004, following her retirement, Elaine relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, leaving behind the cold winters for a warmer climate. She became a devoted member of GracePointe Nazarene Church and remained actively involved in the church community until July 2017, when declining health led her to move in with her daughter. In March 2020, they relocated to Florida, where Elaine continued to be surrounded by love and care until her peaceful passing on May 28, 2025.

Elaine was known for her remarkable character—her kindness, generosity, and compassion touched the hearts of all who knew her. A true fighter and an overcomer, she became an inspiration to her family and friends, offering strength and love even in the most difficult times.

Elaine is survived by her beloved children: Hopeton, Lennox, Charmaine, Anthony, and Donnarie; her sons-in-law, Vincent and Paul; 20 grandchildren; 4 grandsons-in-law; 19 great grandchildren; 9 sisters; 2 brothers; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Vivian and Emma Anita Johnson; her brothers, Lloyd and Winston Johnson; and her beloved son, Dwright Allen. 

Elaine’s life was a testament to faith, love, and resilience. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and the family she loved and so deeply cherished. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered with love and gratitude by her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. Elaine gave us so much—love, laughter, and wisdom. As we say goodbye, we carry her memory with us: forever cherished, never forgotten. Elaine has finished her race and now rests in the arms of her Savior. Until we meet again, we hold her in our hearts and we thank God for the precious gift of her life To share your memories of Elaine or to leave a special message for her family online please visit the guestbook below.

To share your memories of Elaine or to leave a special message for her family online please visit the guestbook below.