Bishop William H. Allen

William Henry Allen was born on November 3, 1932 to Pastors Ruby Lee and Ellen Allen of Bryan Texas.He was the second eldest of nine siblings. Raised in a Christian environment, William Allen was surrounded by a family deeply rooted in ministry, including pastors, missionaries, evangelists, and preachers. Their guidance and example profoundly influenced his faith journey, leading him to accept Christ at an early age. He completed his primary and secondary education in Texas before relocating to Chicago. While traveling with his family and playing the saxophone at revivals across the state, he met the love of his life. The moment he laid eyes on Wylonn Ruth Jordan, daughter of Pastor Samuel and Sweetie Jordan, he knew she was the one he wanted to spend forever with. On December 19, 1954, they were united in holy matrimony and soon relocated to Chicago, Illinois. Their union was blessed with six children—three sons and three daughters. The family settled on the South Side of Chicago, where Bishop Allen worked tirelessly to provide for them. He was employed at R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company for 25 years, where his dedication and work ethic earned him a rapid rise to Foreman, along with numerous accolades. A devoted husband and father, Bishop Allen’s commitment to his family was evident in everything he did. Many days, he could be seen carrying four milk jugs in his hands, prompting neighbors to affectionately call out, 'There goes the milkman!'—only to realize he was simply ensuring his six children never went without First Lady Wylonn Allen was a devoted wife for 62 years, standing faithfully by her husband’s side as they worked together in ministry. She wholeheartedly embraced his vision, helping to create opportunities for the lost, break cycles of destruction, and improve lives through their shared mission. A constant source of encouragement, she inspired him to pursue higher education. As a result, he earned a Bachelor's degree in Education from Governors State University, pursued a Master’s degree at Oral Roberts University, and was later honored with a Doctor of Divinity from Grace Theological Seminary. Upon arriving in Chicago, Bishop Allen became a member of Roberts Temple COGIC, widely known as the 'Mother Church' or '40th.' This marked the beginning of his lifelong devotion to God, His Word, and the church. In the 1950s, he was licensed as a minister and later ordained as an elder. Bishop Allen was a man of purpose, vision, and prayer, driven by a deep commitment to fulfilling God’s call on his life—winning souls to Christ. His motto, 'It’s a New Day and a New Vision—It’s All About Souls,' reflected his unwavering dedication to sharing the Gospel with everyone he encountered. His heart for service extended beyond the pulpit; for over 20 years, he led a jail ministry, preaching to thousands and witnessing many to come to salvation. Known for his faithfulness, integrity, kindness, and steadfast love for God and people, Bishop Allen remained a pillar in the community. After faithfully serving at Roberts Temple COGIC, he answered God’s call to minister at Faith Temple Church of God in Christ, continuing his mission to transform lives through the Gospel.

Bishop Allen was widely recognized as a leader among men and deeply respected as a man of God. For 25 years, he served as the assistant pastor of Faith Temple Church of God in Christ under the leadership of its founder, the late Bishop H. Goldsberry. Recognizing his unwavering dedication and faithfulness, Bishop Goldsberry appointed him as his successor. In 1985, Bishop Allen stepped into the role of Senior Pastor, faithfully leading the congregation until his retirement in 2017. Even in retirement, he continued to serve as Pastor Emeritus until his passing. In 2014, he was appointed as an Auxiliary Bishop under the leadership of the late Bishop William Haven Bonner, Prelate. Bishop Allen dedicated over 63 years to ministry, serving faithfully until his demise. In 1995, Bishop Allen introduced the theme 'Building the Walls,' inspiring the congregation to embark on a building fund drive. This initiative marked the beginning of great expectations and ambitious goals. With faith and determination, the walls were built, and every section was joined together, symbolizing unity and progress. Under his leadership, Bishop Allen implemented numerous transformative enhancements, including the establishment of the Allen Annex, which featured a 200-seat dining hall, with a state-of-the-art kitchen, baptismal pool, classrooms, offices, and a spacious overflow room. Additionally, the H.W. Goldsberry Memorial Room was created, several lots were acquired, and the H.W. Goldsberry Administrative Building was renovated. The church also underwent significant upgrades, including the construction of ultra-modern restrooms and an elevator to accommodate the physically challenged and senior citizens. His vision became a reality as the church was beautifully renovated inside and out. Beyond his local impact, Bishop Allen traveled extensively, carrying the message of faith across the globe. His journeys took him to New Zealand, Alaska, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Spain, Canada, Mexico, Hawaii, the Caribbean Islands, thirteen countries in Europe, and the Holy Land. The legacy of the esteemed Bishop William H. Allen will forever live on in our hearts and through his family. We thank God for blessing us with a true Man of God—one who not only preached the Word but lived it daily. He now rejoins in glory his devoted wife of 62 years, Wylonn R. Allen; his beloved sons, William Henry II and Winston Michael; his grandson-in-law, Marcus L. Tucker; and his siblings, Ruby Lee, Robert, Joyce, Lucille, and Anne. Cherishing his memory and carrying forward his legacy are his wife of five years, Lady Deborah (Scott) Allen; his daughters, Wylonn 'China' Cleveland (John Chandler Cleveland), W. Debbie Allen Bridges (Jerome B. Bridges), Wendrick 'Tony' Allen, and Wandria 'Pamela' Allen-Sumpter. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and three sisters: Ruby Jewell Hammond (Rozelle), Sylvia B. Pouncy (Willie), and Bobbie (Jim). A host of sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, extended family, and the household of faith will continue to cherish his kind spirit and enduring impact
 

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