Ms. Mary "Joyce" Allen

December 26, 1957 - November 26, 2020

Ms. Mary Joyce Allen, 62, of Peoria, IL transitioned to her heavenly home on Thursday, November 26, 2020 at her home. Mary, affectionately known as “Joyce” was born on December 26, 1957 in Peoria, IL to proud parents, Elmer Cordell and Mary Elizabeth (Ellis) Johnson, Sr. She accepted Christ at an early age. She began her Christian journey at Bethel United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir and was a youth usher. Joyce attended Peoria Central High. She married Marvin R. Allen, Sr., in August of 1974, together they raised two children, Marvin, Jr., and Crystal. Joyce had a strong work ethic. She was employed by Simons Mortuary for many years in the 80’s and 90’s. She also worked as a customer service representative with Kroger and in their floral department. Joyce loved reading and studying the bible. Joyce was a talented graphic artist. She was an amazing interior decorator, florist, landscape artist and chef. She loved all genres of music and was a great singer. Joyce absolutely loved spending time with her family. Joyce leaves to cherish her most precious memories her loving and devoted children, Marvin R. Allen, Jr., of Morton, IL and Crystal (Frank) Roddy, Sr., of Peoria, IL; a step-daughter, Shannon Allen of Peoria, IL; one sister, Yvonne Amanda Langford of Peoria, IL; six adorable grandchildren, Nia, Kia, Cole, Devin, Tiara and Issac; five greatgrandchildren and 2 on the way; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Elmer C. “Punchie” Johnson, Jr., Gary Johnson and Larry Johnson; and one sister, Cheryl Johnson. A private funeral service will be held at 12 noon, Friday, December 4, 2020 at Simons Mortuary with a visitation at 11 am. Rev. Dr. Pat Pollard, Pastor of New Bethel M.B. Church, will bring words of comfort to the family. Joyce will be laid to rest at Historic Springdale Cemetery. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at simonsmortuary.com. The funeral service will be live streamed on Simons Mortuary's Website or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Simons-Mortuary-232095303487150 promptly AT THE TIME OF THE SERVICE. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, social distancing and attendance limits will be observed. In accordance with the Illinois Department of Public Health, Funerals are limited to 10 family members of the decedents, not including the staff. To be consistent with recommendations from the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), funeral home directors have been instructed and should follow CDC guidelines on gatherings, including those directly related to funerals, visitations, or graveside services. Funerals are limited to no more than 10 of the decedent’s immediate family members. *In an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we ask that everyone in attendance: wear a face mask and refrain from hugging, kissing and shaking hands (as hard as it is to see someone you care about and not touch them). *It is our responsibility as a Funeral Directors, to do everything we can to advise families in order to honor our beloved Families and to keep everyone as safe as possible. The chapel can socially distance and seat no more than 10 or less people. All others will be able to flow through prior to beginning of the service. Thanks in advance for your cooperation!