Lon Thomas Allen , affectionately known as "Skipper "or "Skip", quietly departed this life on Monday, December 18, 2023.

Skipper was born on January 16, 1940 in Excelsior Springs, MO.  He was the eldest of 4 children by the late Lonzetta Allen. He attended Main Street Baptist Church in Excelsior Springs, MO as a child. Skipper received his education in Excelsior Springs, MO.

In 1964, Skipper enlisted in the United States Army where he achieved the rank of Sergeant and was a member of the 101st Airborne. During his time in the military, he served in the Vietnam War. Skipper was honorably discharged in 1967. Upon discharge from the Army, he worked for various companies until becoming employed with Gilmour Hose Company where he retired in 2008.

During his retirement, Skipper was a John W. Carter Lodge 180 member and enjoyed serving the community. As a result of his generous spirit and "cool" personality, he was loved by many.

Skipper had a beautiful smile, he was kind, funny, and full of laughter and jokes. There was never a dull moment when he was around. He loved his family and friends dearly; and lived out his later years in Lexington, MO with his long-time companion and special friend, Phyllis Mason.

Skipper was blessed to father seven children: Michael Johnson, Andrew Cooper, Tonya Allen-Jackson, Tonia Allen, Monique Allen, Lon Pepper, and Loni Myran.  Preceding him in death was his mother, Lonzetta Allen; sister, Evelyn (Patsy) Allen; and daughters, Monique Allen and Tonia Allen. He was previously married to Annette Allen of Kansas City, MO, Glennie Allen of Kansas City, MO (deceased), and Irene Allen of Kansas City, MO (deceased).

He leaves to cherish and honor his memory: sons, Michael Johnson of Independence, MO, Andrew Cooper of Kansas City, MO and Lon Pepper of Colorado Springs, CO; daughters, Tonya Allen-Jackson of Clarksville, TN and Loni Myran (Nick) of North Bennington, VT ; 2 sisters, Joyce Stephens of Desoto, TX and Mary Allen of Kansas City, MO; 8 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and a host of devoted nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In keeping with Skipper's request, family and friends are invited to join us at 1:00PM for a graveside service on January 5, 2024, at Elmwood Cemetery on US 69 Highway and Corum Road in Excelsior Springs, MO, and again for a Memorial Service at 1:00PM on January 27, 2024 at Paseo Baptist Church, 2501 Paseo Blvd, Kansas City, MO.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc .