Joan Durham Allen, a devoted wife, cherished mother, and beloved grandmother, passed away on August 6, 2024, at the age of 82. Born on April 3, 1942, Joan was a passionate wife, mother, friend and educator that was loved by all that knew her.
A proud graduate of Kansas State University, Joan was an active and enthusiastic member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Her professional journey as an elementary art teacher in Raytown, MO, allowed her to touch the lives of hundreds of children, leaving a lasting impact through her creativity and dedication.
Joan’s life was characterized by her profound devotion to her family. She leaves behind her beloved husband of 57 years, Larry Allen; her children, Mike Allen and Graham Allen; and her seven grandchildren and one great-grandson. Joan is also survived by her sister, Nancy Durham, and her brother, Grover Durham. Her family will forever treasure the warmth and joy she brought into their lives.
Joan's adventurous spirit led her to travel extensively with her family, exploring both the United States and the world. Following her retirement, she and Larry became integral members of communities in Estes Park, CO; Misawa, Japan; Florence, AZ; and John Knox Village in Lee’s Summit, MO. Her unwavering commitment to community service was further exemplified through her involvement with Cottey College and the P.E.O. Sisterhood, organizations she supported with great dedication.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to P.E.O. Sisterhood for Cottey College at www.cottey.edu/give or Kappa Kappa Gamma at https://www.mcfks.org/make-a-donation select a fund ‘Krista Harms Kappa Kappa Gamma President’s Scholarship’ - causes dear to Joan’s heart.
