Carmel Mary Martin Allen

Carmel Mary Martin Allen died peacefully with her family by her side on June 27, 2020, at the age of 91. Carmel was Born on September 9, 1928, in Cardiff, Wales, grew up near Middlesex/London, England. She came to the United States and married Charles Allen on May 31, 1955. Carmel lived in many places throughout her life including England; Vacaville, CA; New Braunfels, TX; and Marion, VA but the majority of her life was spent on the family farm in Burnsville, NC. Carmel (Nana) was full of life and loved by all. She delighted friends and family through her love of music by dancing and singing throughout her life. She was a wealth of knowledge and had a passion for books that she shared with her family. She was a self-professed chocoholic and a connoisseur of English tea. Desserts and candy were always available for all who visited her. She was kind, loving, honest, and witty. Her humor always created genuine laughter. Her energy was all-encompassing. Her inspiring unconditional love and dedication to her family is a legacy that will not be forgotten. Carmel is survived by her daughters, Janice Collins, Donna Hudgins, and Susan Grigsby; 11 grandchildren, William & Mia Kytle, Bobby & Tabitha Collins, Amber Liggon & Daniel, Vince & Kelly Sandoval, Charles & Natalie Olson, Callyia & James Norman, Derek Paulson, Cameron Sandoval & Alexandria, Clayton Collins & Felicia, Colten Collins, Scotty & Kelly Glass; and 13 great grandchildren. Carmel was preceded in death by her parents, Christine Francis Kane Ward and Ivor John Martin; her husband, Charles Allen of Burnsville, NC; sister and brother-in-law, Valerie & Bob Horton of Vacaville, CA; and brother, Vince Martin of Inverness, Scotland. Carmel will be missed dearly and thought of often. Wherever Nana was, was home. The family will celebrate her life in a private memorial. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the charity she loved and volunteered with for many years: The Reconciliation House PO Box 1147 Burnsville, NC 28714 or re-house.org "Good Night, God Bless Nana Banana. Good Night, God Bless." Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the Allen family.