Longtime Houchens Industries Employee Ralph Edward Allen Dies at 82

Allen was a lifelong farmer and member of First General Baptist Church in Leitchfield, Kentucky.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Ralph Edward Allen, an 82-year-old resident of Leitchfield, Kentucky, passed away on February 23, 2026 at his home. Allen had worked for over 40 years at Houchens Industries as a stock handler and bagger, and was also a lifelong farmer who enjoyed gardening and growing flowers. He was a member of First General Baptist Church in Leitchfield.

Why it matters

Allen's passing marks the end of an era for a longtime local business and community member in Leitchfield. His decades-long career at Houchens Industries and active involvement in the local church and farming community highlight the importance of long-serving, dedicated employees and volunteers in small towns.

The details

Allen retired from Houchens Industries after more than 40 years of working as a stock handler and bagger. He was also a farmer who enjoyed gardening and growing flowers. Allen married his late wife, Ruby White Allen, on June 4, 1981. He was a member of First General Baptist Church in Leitchfield.

  • Allen passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026.
  • Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at the Hudson Cemetery in Breckinridge County, Kentucky.

The players

Ralph Edward Allen

An 82-year-old resident of Leitchfield, Kentucky who worked for over 40 years at Houchens Industries and was a lifelong farmer and member of First General Baptist Church.

Ruby White Allen

Allen's late wife, whom he married on June 4, 1981.

Wavie Allen

Allen's late father.

Mildred Allen

Allen's late mother.

Ruth Ann Elliott

Allen's sister, who lives in Breckinridge County.

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What they’re saying

“Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, (March 3, 2026) at the Hudson Cemetery in Breckinridge County, KY. Bro. Buddy Brooks will be officiating. Burial will follow. He will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Ruby.”

— Bro. Buddy Brooks, Officiant (k105.com)

The takeaway

Ralph Edward Allen's life and legacy exemplify the importance of long-serving, dedicated employees and community members in small towns like Leitchfield. His decades-long career, farming pursuits, and involvement in his local church highlight how individuals can make a lasting impact through their steadfast contributions over many years.