Richard David Allen

Richard David Allen, “Dave,” age 83 passed away peacefully on November 6, 2025 while a patient at the Big Bend Hospice, Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. He was born in Columbus, Georgia on July 21, 1942. He was predeceased by his parents, Margaret Smith Allen and Dr. William G. Allen. Surviving family members include his two sons David Allen, Jr. and Frank Allen, six grandchildren and his brother William G. Allen, Jr. When young men of military service age received their “Greetings” notice from the Columbus Draft Board, Dave was inducted into the Georgia National Guard. When his enlistment obligation was completed, he received an honorable discharge, and returned to civilian life in Atlanta. Dave graduated from the University of Georgia with a major in business administration. Upon graduation, he worked for several years at Best Foods, Inc. and later as a salesman for Beauty Rest Mattress Co. Later in his working career, Dave served as a counselor at the Fulton County Detox Center, in Atlanta. Sometime afterward, he left that position, and provided recreation therapy services for patients with moderate to severe mental illness at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. In 1979, Dave moved to Portland, Oregon mostly for outdoor recreational opportunities. He found work as a drug and alcohol counselor at the St. Vincent de Paul Center in Portland. A few years later, he moved back to Atlanta and began working as a counselor at Georgia Regional Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia. After moving to Monticello, Florida, Dave continued his work as a drug and alcohol counselor in the North Florida area. Deciding to retire, Dave devoted more time to his passions, music and outdoor activities, while continuing to help informally many family, friends and acquaintances who suffered from alcohol and drug problems. Residents of Monticello, Florida may remember Dave as a busker, playing his guitar, harmonica and singing familiar folk and blue grass songs near popular restaurants for several years. Occasionally, Dave would be joined with his dear friends, Sam and Sallie Worley for a “Musicale” night at Tupelo’s Restaurant in Monticello. Dave will be missed by all who knew him. A Celebration of Life is being planned for Dave at Tupelo’s Restaurant in Monticello, Florida, in early 2026. Mr. Allen is under the care of Jackie Fulford and James Sircy of Young Fulford Funeral Home, Tallahassee, Florida. 850.610.4444

Richard David Allen

July 21, 1942 - November 6, 2025