Ernestine Claris Allen

PEORIA HEIGHTS – Ernestine Claris "Erni" Allen, 75, of Peoria Heights, died at 11:17 a.m., Saturday, March 3, 2012, at OSF Saint Clare Home in Peoria Heights. She was born November 30, 1936 in Peoria, to Ernest and Claris Collings Cochran. She married Donald H. Allen on June 23, 1962, in Peoria. He preceded her in death on May 23, 2008, in Peoria. Also preceding her in death are her son Richard; her brothers, James and John; her sister, Judith Honeycutt, and in-laws, Virginia and Roger Fay. She is survived by her children, Mary Allen of Peoria and John (Stephanie) Allen of Yorkville; her granddaughters, Lea Severson of Chicago and Kallistah Allen of Yorkville; her brother-in-law, Jim (Kay) Allen of Peoria Heights, and many nieces and nephews. She was a clerical worker for many area businesses. Her favorite job was working for a local radio station, where she wrote ad copy for commercials. She also worked for RESCO, IPMR, Graybar Electric, Friendship House, where she was an accountant, and Caterpillar, Inc. She was a proud 49 year member of Peoria Heights Congregational Church, where she taught Sunday School to both children and adults; sang in the church choir; played in the bell choir; was President, as well as holding all offices, of the Women's Fellowship. She was a Deaconess; lead Bible Study; was a member of the Church Council; a member of the ministerial search committee, also serving as church secretary and Trustee. She was an avid reader, writer, painter and was a Girl Scout leader. She dearly loved her family and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. To her family, her strength and faith were the example of a life well lived. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 8, 2012 at Peoria Heights Congregational Church. The Rev. Karl Kraemer will officiate. Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 7, at The Wilton Mortuary in Peoria, as well as one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday morning. Burial will be in Springdale Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Peoria Heights Congregational Church.