Allen Shorts Sr.

Allen Shorts, Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away on February 5, 2025, at the age of 83. Allen was born on December 31, 1941, the sixth of nine children of the late Caleb Shorts, Sr., and Katie Turner Shorts, on Locust Ridge Plantation in St. Joseph, Louisiana. Allen lived a life full of love, faith, and dedication to truth, honesty, and integrity. After completing his education in St. Joseph, Allen moved to New Orleans at the age of 18. He spent eight years working for Pepsi before beginning a long and fulfilling career as Warehouse Manager at Dave Streiffer, where he worked until his retirement in 2011. In 1972, Allen met his sweetheart, Arleen Brown a.k.a. Leenie. Their love story culminated in marriage on October 17, 1996, marking the beginning of a joyful chapter together. Allen was known affectionately as "Big Al" or "Uncle Lane" to his friends and family. Allen's faith was a cornerstone of his life. Affirming his commitment to the Lord, he was baptized at St. Mark’s Fourth Baptist Church in the year 2000; there he was a dedicated member and served as Secretary of the Deacon Board. His unwavering faith, bold voice, and strong presence will be remembered by all who knew him. Allen was an avid sports fan. He loved spending time riding his bike, sitting on the porch, and enjoying his favorite TV shows. Allen stood tall in every aspect of his life—whether in his work, faith, or through his love for those close to him. Allen leaves behind a legacy of faith, strength, and love. He is survived by his loving wife Arleen, his children Michael Shorts, Sr., Monic Everage (Lawrence), Lorena Campbell (Solomon), and Alex Shorts (Krishanda); Grandchildren Shantell Williams, Nathan Vernon (Lizanne), Ashley Shorts, Evelyn Shorts (Jasmeon), Kierre Williams, Michael Shorts, Jr., Marvin Bickham, Solomon Williams, Alex Perkins, Pierre Campbell, and Logan Shorts; 13 great-grandchildren; siblings Anna B. Keller (Jesse), Caleb Shorts, Jr., (Louise), Nancy Page, Nekeidra White (Lawrence), Wilbert Shorts (Jessie); niece Francine Siah (Bernard) and nephew Timothy Shorts (Darlene) who were raised in the same home; sisters-in-law Glenda Johnson (Earl) and Geraldine Shorts; and a host of family and friends who will forever cherish his memory. Allen was preceded in death by his parents, son Allen Shorts, Jr., grandson Allen R. Shorts, and siblings Gertrude Shorts-Foster, Samuel Shorts, and Dorothy Shorts-Bradford. Although he will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave.