Joseph Tarver Allen, born January 15, 1947, in Cambridge, Ohio, entered into eternal rest on Friday, March 27, 2026.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Verdi and Joe Allen, step brother Wes Allen and step sister Latvia Allen and his siblings: Leo Allen, Phyllis Wilson, Elmira Green, Donna Thompson, Lillian Ball,
Joe graduated from Cambridge High School, Ohio University, and The Ohio State University. He was a proud member of the 1968 undefeated Ohio University Football Team, where he played defensive line.

Joseph retired after over 30 years of dedicated service as a guidance counselor and school social worker with Columbus City Schools. He also worked part-time as a realtor with H. C. Bland Realty.

He maintained active involvement in numerous professional and alumni organizations, including the Columbus Education Retired Association, the National Association Black School Educators, the Ohio University Alumni Association, and the Ohio State University Alumni Association. He also participated in various fellowships of retirees, colleagues and community groups.

Joe was a man of faith who accepted Christ at an early age. Joe was a member of Healing Hill Cathedral and Now Faith In Action Church. He was deeply passionate about his family, treasured friendships, community and social gatherings. Joe was an avid sports enthusiast who loved competition. He was a devoted Ohio University Bobcat fan and a lifelong Ohio State University Buckeye fan, proudly serving as a season ticket holder for the Buckeyes for many years. Those who cherished Joe’s love and memories include his life-long partner, Barbara J. Motley, and Beverly J. Motley, James Ball (Janelle & family), Erica Porter(Andre Porter & Family)Elaine and Charles Goines, Carole Wilkey, Leon Allen, Dennis Ball, Mark Green (Lisa & family), Bobby Green (Suzette & Family), Jeff Green; nieces Verda Wilson, Mylinda and Hezekiah Rives, Tracey Allen and Lisa Allen Gideons and cousins Charlotte Hall, Charles L. Tarver and Marilyn (Raphael) Harrison. Joseph will be remembered by many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

His memory is also cherished by special colleagues Dr. Linda Tillman, Tom Bakes, Martin Rutledge (Shirley), Micheal and Suzette Dave, Pastor Bob Frary, Patricia and Peter Howard; Bethany Presbyterian Church Saturday Community Lunch; and our “furry family,” Salem, Keygo, and Ginger.
Friends will be received for Visitation at Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Service at 1370 East Main Street Columbus, Ohio 43205 on Thursday, April 9th, 2026 from 10:00 am until 11:00 am . Services will be held at Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Service at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 9th, 2026 until 12:00 pm followed immediately by interment at North Lawn Memory Gardens.

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