With loving hearts we celebrate the life of Kathy Lynn Lester Allen. She was a beacon of light and a pillar of strength for all who had the privilege of knowing her. From her birth on July 7, 1949, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to her peaceful return to her Heavenly Father on April 15, 2024, Kathy exemplified the adjectives that defined her life: loving, loyal, dedicated, and resilient. Her life was a living testament of her faith, as a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As stated in Proverbs 31:28, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
Kathy’s life was marked by her dedication to the roles that mattered most to her: that of a beloved wife, a nurturing mother, and a faithful servant. She married her sweetheart, Lance, on July 1, 1967, and their love story, spanning over 56 years, was one of pure devotion and unwavering commitment. For 55 years, Kathy served as the director of operations for the Allen household, raising their children with love, patience, and wisdom. Her daughters were the pride and joy of her life. Kathy’s dedication extended beyond her family, as she served her community in various capacities, but notably in the capacity of Commissioner of welfare and safety for the Provo and Orem areas.
Kathy’s resilient spirit was reflected in her varied interests and accomplishments. She was a passionate homemaker and loved family history, temple work, emergency preparedness, and art. Kathy’s oil paintings were particularly cherished, each piece a vivid expression of her vibrant spirit and love for life. Her religious involvement was deeply rooted, serving in various ward and stake callings, notably over 30 years in the Primary organization. Kathy lived in multiple places including Salt Lake City, Utah, North Hills, California, Chatsworth, California, Alpine, Utah, and finally Cedar Hills, Utah. Through all these changes, Kathy’s love for her husband and her family remained her guiding star.
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth Lester and Maurine Jorgensen. Her memory lives on in the hearts of her brother, Gary Lester, devoted husband, Lance, and her loving daughters, Kristine Recalde (Tony Recalde), Kenna Mills (Brad Mills), Kari Brown (Michael Brown), Kelly Kennard (Kirtis Kennard), Kimberly Powell (Bud Powell) and her 21 grandchildren.
Let us honor Kathy’s life by sharing our memories, stories, and photos on her memorial page, celebrating the life of a remarkable woman whose influence reached far beyond the boundaries of her home. Her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire us all.
A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. in the Cedar Hills 9th Ward chapel located at 4580 West Cedar Hills Drive, Cedar Hills, Utah. Friends and family may attend a viewing in the same location from 12:30-1:45 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will take place in the Salt Lake City Cemetery following the services.
5 Condolences for Kathy Lynn Allen
Condolences(5)
MIke Wallis says
April 17, 2024 at 2:35 pmOur thoughts and prayers are with Lance and the family at this time. Watching Lance take such good care of Kathy while at church over these last few months has been a testament to their devotion to one another. And witnessing Kathy, for years, tend lovingly to her mother’s care was beyond measure and a blessing for our family to watch. Love the Allen’s! Mike and Melinda Wallis
Karolyn De La Portilla says
April 18, 2024 at 12:42 amI am sad I will not be there for the services. I am so sorry for the Allen family and send my love to them.
One of my favorite memories of Kathy was also the very first time I met her. It was Sunday dinner in Utah. Kari and Michael hadn’t been dating for to long. She was so inviting, warm, and made you feel like you were one of her daughters right away. She was always inviting, caring, and a fun lady. She was most defiantly someone who loved on the Agape level. I know she will be missed on earth, but will be doing amazing work in heaven and getting everything ready for when she is reunited with her whole family.
Debbie Punjak says
April 19, 2024 at 2:19 amDear Brother Allen and family,
I had the privilege of knowing your family through your daughter Kenna Allen Mills when you lived in CA. I was privileged to be with your daughter while on two very exciting and faith building adventures. Mt. Whitney and Half dome in Yellowstone. It was an amazing adventure that showed how valuable the teaching of her Mother had given her the strength to undertake such life changing interests. Thank you Brother Allen for being such a kind and diligent man. I am sorry for your loss at this time but am comforted to know your family will be reunited for eternity. I know that as the talents of your daughter were taught by her Mother. I know that you all are comforted by the Holy Spirit at this time.. My prayers are with you all.
Willam Viggo Madsen says
April 19, 2024 at 6:25 pmI have known Kathy and Lance for over 40 Years. We did a lot of things together, having children at the same time. Both moving to Utah. Now we both have lost our sweet companions. My heart hurts and is sad for you. But we both know that we can be with them again. Kathy was always happy, and I loved her smile. Lance, you have always been a great example of how to be a loving and concerned husband. I am glad I got to see Kathy before she passed, she will be missed. May our Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ bring you comfort at this time brother. Thank you for Kathy and you being a part of my and Joys life.
Bill Madsen says
April 19, 2024 at 6:27 pmI have known Kathy and Lance for over 40 Years. We did a lot of things together, having children at the same time. Both moving to Utah. Now we both have lost our sweet companions. My heart hurts and is sad for you. But we both know that we can be with them again. Kathy was always happy, and I loved her smile. Lance, you have always been a great example of how to be a loving and concerned husband. I am glad I got to see Kathy before she passed, she will be missed. May our Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ bring you comfort at this time brother. Thank you for Kathy and you being a part of my and Joys life.
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