A house RESOLUTION

 

TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM ALLEN OF RICHLAND COUNTY AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were saddened to learn of the death of Christopher William "Chris" Allen of Richland County on November 5, 2025, at the age of thirty-seven; and

 

Whereas, born to Clarence and Deborah Jennings Allen of Richland County, Chris came into this world on April 28, 1988; and

 

Whereas, at an early age, he became a member of St. John and Gill Creek Baptist churches. After prayer and God's direction, Chris and his family moved their family membership to Grace Christian Church; and

 

Whereas, a proud 2006 graduate of Keenan High School, Chris attended Richland County School District One. In further preparation for his career, he attended South Carolina State University and ultimately received a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies from Benedict College in 2016. At the time of his passing, Chris was pursuing his master's degree at Grand Canyon University; and

 

Whereas, Chris became an active member of Prince Hall Masonry, beginning with Olive Grove Chapter #477. Upon his relocation to Columbia, he joined More Light Lodge No. 468 Free & Accepted Masons P.H.A. Because of his diligent services, he was appointed assistant chair of the Grand Lodge Scholarship Committee; and

 

Whereas, among those mourning the sudden loss of Chris Allen are the students of Dreher High School, where Chris was a beloved teacher and football coach. His legacy of compassion, mentorship, and love for students continues to be felt throughout the Columbia community, but Coach Allen's impact went beyond Dreher High School. He was a 2024 initiate of the Omicron Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., where he was known for his commitment to serving others; and

 

Whereas, Chris enjoyed life through his love of people, food, a good laugh, and excellent culinary skills. A true exemplar of a great husband, father, son, and friend, he will always be remembered for his kind heart and loving soul; and

 

Whereas, preceded in death by his grandparents, the late Young and Nancy Allen and the late William Sr. and Willie Etta Toatley Jennings, as well as by his brother, Clarence Allen Jr., Chris leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Shannon J. Allen; his two sons, Christopher William II and Jackson Alexander; his two daughters, Lauren Simone and Channing Olivia; his parents, Clarence Allen and Deborah Jennings Allen; and a host of other family members, friends, students, and co-workers. He will be greatly missed. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of Christopher William Allen of Richland County and extend the deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family.

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