Charles Allen, 93, Buckhannon Resident and Army Veteran, Passes Away

Allen retired from Western Union and the railroad after decades of service.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:21am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph in soft, warm tones depicting the blurred outline of an elderly man sitting in a rocking chair on a porch, surrounded by the hazy shapes of nature, conveying a sense of nostalgia and the passage of time.The passing of Charles Allen, a beloved Buckhannon resident and U.S. Army veteran, marks the end of an era for his close-knit community.Buckhannon Today

Charles Allen, a 93-year-old resident of Buckhannon, West Virginia, passed away on April 11, 2026, at Holbrook Healthcare Center following an extended illness. Allen was a U.S. Army veteran and had retired from Western Union and the railroad after many years of service.

Why it matters

Allen's passing marks the end of an era for a longtime Buckhannon community member who dedicated his life to serving his country, working hard, and spending time with his loving family. His story reflects the experiences of many World War II-era Americans who built careers, raised families, and remained engaged in their local communities throughout their lives.

The details

Charles Allen was born on December 28, 1932, in Philippi, West Virginia, to Howard and Ora Findly Allen. He married Lula B. McLean Allen on September 1, 1956, and the couple had two children, Jeffrey C. Allen and Barbara L. Riffle. Allen worked for 25 years at Western Union and 12 years for the B&O, C&O, and CSX railroads before retiring on January 1, 1995. He was an active member of the Hodgesville Lions Club and served as a Cub Scout Den Father in Gassaway, West Virginia.

  • Charles Allen passed away on April 11, 2026.
  • Allen's graveside service and interment will be held on April 15, 2026.

The players

Charles Allen

A 93-year-old resident of Buckhannon, West Virginia, who was a U.S. Army veteran and retired from Western Union and the railroad after many years of service.

Lula B. McLean Allen

Charles Allen's wife of many years, who survives him.

Jeffrey C. Allen

One of Charles Allen's two children.

Barbara L. Riffle

One of Charles Allen's two children.

Pastor Ed Lowther

The pastor who will officiate Charles Allen's graveside service.

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What’s next

Charles Allen's graveside service and interment will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Buckhannon Memorial Park Cemetery.

The takeaway

Charles Allen's life story reflects the experiences of many Americans of his generation who served their country, built careers, raised families, and remained engaged in their local communities throughout their lives. His passing marks the end of an era for the Buckhannon community.