By John Brice
Correspondent
Sad news was announced this past week in regards to the passing of Lanett Fire & EMS Chief Johnny Allen. Details were provided via an August 14th post on the Facebook page for the Chambers County Emergency Management Agency which stated “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart to share the passing of our beloved Fire Chief, Johnny Allen, who was not only a steadfast leader but also a cherished member of our 9-1-1 Board. He was a mentor and a dear friend to so many of us. He was a guiding light in our community, someone who dedicated his life to protecting others, both on the front lines and behind the scenes. As a 9-1-1 Board member, he worked tirelessly to ensure that our community was always cared for in times of need, bringing the same passion and commitment that he showed as our Fire Chief. But more than that, he was a true friend. His warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support were gifts to everyone who knew him. Losing him feels like losing a part of our own hearts and family.”
Providing further detail, the post continued “We mourn the tremendous loss of a great leader, a protector, and a friend. Chief Allen, your legacy is one of love, courage, and selflessness. You have left a lasting impact on our lives, and your legacy will continue to guide us. Rest easy, knowing that your spirit will always be with us, leading us forward, just as you always did. Rest in peace, dear friend. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”
Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home of Valley posted an obituary to their official website which remarked “With a heart full of service and a legacy of boundless courage, Chief Johnny Allen, affectionately known as Johnny, passed away peacefully at his residence in Lanett, Alabama, on August 12, 2024. Born in Langdale, Alabama, on December 30, 1961, Johnny lived a life that exemplified kindness, bravery, and a dedication to his community.”
Chronicling the many years of Allen’s service, the obituary continued “Johnny dedicated his career to protecting others, beginning as a firefighter in 1983. Through his unwavering commitment and admirable work ethic, he ascended to the rank of Captain and Paramedic with the City of Lanett Fire Department. His exceptional leadership and passion for service led to his appointment as Fire Chief in 2009, a role he proudly held until his passing. During his tenure, Johnny was responsible for spearheading various projects for the City of Lanett and shared his expertise by serving on several boards, including the Chattahoochee Valley Water District and Chambers County 911. Beyond his professional endeavors, Johnny also left his mark on young lives as the Athletic trainer for the Lanett High School and Springwood School football teams for many years.”
Funeral services were held on August 16th at the First Baptist Church of Lanett and interment followed in Hillcrest Cemetery with the Reverend Ronnie Jordan officiating. During the August 19th Lanett City Council meeting a proclamation adopted by the council was read by councilwoman for District 2 Tamalita Dunn Autry which began “WHEREAS it is with great sorrow and deep regret that the legislative body of the City of Lanett records the passing of Chief Johnny Allen, noting the significance of his purposeful life and accomplishments; and WHEREAS, in 1983, Johnny Allen began what would be a lifelong commitment of protecting others and giving of his whole self to this community. He served as a firefighter, Paramedic, Captain and in 2009 he was appointed as Fire and EMS Chief. In 2022 as a result of all of his hard work and dedication, he was chosen by the Mayor as EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR; and WHEREAS, ‘Chief’ was not only responsible for his team of brave men and women firefighters and EMS, but personally took on the responsibility of keeping this entire community safe; and WHEREAS he also served his community by being a part of numerous boards and organizations in various capacities.”
Summing up its solemn message, the proclamation concluded “He was a board member of the Chattahoochee Valley Water District and the Chambers County 911 Board. He gave of his time to the Tri-Valley Christmas Parade Committee, Lanett Regional Airport Advisory Committee, Lanett High School, and Springwood School Football programs and faithfully accompanied ‘Old Saint Nick’ every year on Christmas Eve; and WHEREAS Chief Allen who entered into eternal rest on Monday, August 12, 2024, will be remembered as a man who led with integrity, dedicated his life to helping others, always had an open ear to listen, and who loved his family, his community, and the City of Lanett. BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Lanett Mayor and Council that the City of Lanett has lost a great leader and a man who leaves behind a legacy, which will long endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all he served and befriended. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be included in the official Minutes of the Lanett City Council and a Proclamation be presented to the family naming Friday, August 16, 2024, as Chief Johnny Allen Day in the City of Lanett.”
