Rev. John "Jack" Arthur Allen

It is with heartfelt loss, and an appreciation of a life well lived, that we announce the passing of Jack Allen (John Arthur Allen) on June 20th,2026. He has fought the good fight, he has finished the race, he has kept the faith; and now he has received his reward, entering the presence of his Lord and Saviour.

Born on July 17, 1941 and raised in a small rural community of Carleton, Yarmouth Co., Nova Scotia. He lived in Carlton for 18 years with his parents and siblings. He also enjoyed growing up near his extended family which included many uncles, aunts and cousins. He grew up on a small hobby farm, where he learned a strong work ethic through daily chores. He also worked at a local clothespin factory and a blueberry crate factory. He was a member of the local Cubs and Boy Scouts squadron. While attending high school, he served for three years with the Air Cadet squad. He worked as a cook at the local YMCA summer camp. He enjoyed people, sports, hunting, the outdoors, nature, and animals.

Jack became a follower of Christ in his early teen years through the ministry of Youth for Christ. During his youth, he considered becoming a forest ranger, a cook, or pursuing a business opportunity – but never a pastor. His call to pastoral ministry developed over many years, shaped by personal loss and by the kindness of a pastor who supported his family during the passing of his older brother, David.

He was licensed to preach in 1960 at Carleton United Baptist Church. He was later ordained at Uplands Baptist Church, in Moncton, NB in 1977. His pastoral ministries included several Baptist churches in Atlantic Canada and Maine, USA. During his ministry, Jack took a balanced and holistic approach. He helped to establish the first director position at Camp Wildwood and initiated a counselling ministry with Touchstone Counselling. He served as a chaplain with Billy Graham’s Rapid Response Team and Samaritan’s Purse. He also served as a chaplain with the prison ministry. He was always interested in coaching and mentoring others by giving hope, encouragement, and support, and helping in practical ways. Jack used his ministry as a source of encouragement and hope to others. He believed that through seasons of trial, challenge, and loss there were lessons to be learned and meaning can come in serving others.

Jack considered himself to be a lifelong learner. His early education began at Carleton Elementary School and continued at Yarmouth Memorial School. He attended UBBTS Moncton, where he upgraded his high school courses and earned a Diploma in Biblical Studies. He completed a Bachelor of Theology and a Diploma in Prison Ministry from Acadia Divinity College. He completed master-level courses and thesis work through Moody Graduate School in Chicago, USA. He also attended and participated in many workshops, including graduating from Caring Clown School.

Jack cherished his relationship with the Lord. He always expressed that his greatest joy and blessing was his family and friends. As a father, he was devoted to his children and took great joy in supporting them throughout their lives. As Grampy, Jack found great happiness in his grandchildren, cherishing the time spent with them and taking joy in watching them grow. Watching his grandchildren participate in activities and sports was one of his favourite pastimes.

He appreciated family gatherings for special occasions and family events. The times spent at Shenstone cabin created many good memories for everyone – including playing in the woods, sliding, and campfires. He loved spending time at Allen’s Paradise camp in Carleton and visiting with family in the area. He also loved May long weekend traditions with the Carlin family each year. He enjoyed camping in the trailer, sharing great stories, having good laughs, and pulling some pranks too. He loved to make others laugh and found it appropriate to be funny on any occasion – happy or sad. His playful spirit, gentle heart, and deep love touched everyone who had the joy of knowing him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife and faithful partner of 60 years, Ardeth; his twin sister Joan and her husband Lloyd Doane; a younger brother Keith and his wife Della Allen; his son David Allen; and his daughter Jackie Allen Ashe and her husband Grant, Erika Ross (Trevor), and Erin Eastwood Allen. He leaves his grandchildren Winter,Scarlett, Calum, Megan, Little Jack, Anna (Aaron), Luke (Naomi), Gabby, and Cassia. He will also be remembered by many nieces and nephews. Jack’s absence will be felt by his extended family, the Carlin family, his cherished church family, caring neighbours, and the many friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, wisdom and unwavering faith. 

 

Besides his parents, Arthur and Lebina Allen, he was predeceased by his older brother, David and son, Jonathan.

Through the years, he built lasting friendships wherever he went, leaving behind
countless memories and a legacy of love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Jack wrote a book of short stories about his adventures titled, "A Promising Journey". He loved to read, write, learn, and share. In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful if you would write a short note or share a memory to be included in a keepsake—highlighting a way Jack brought encouragement or hope into your life. Memories can be shared on the Albert County Funeral Home website page or there will an opportunity to leave a note at the visitation.

A time of visitation will take place on Wednesday Evening, June 24th, 2026 from 5:00pm-8:00pm from the Hillsborough Baptist Church (26 Braam Crescent).  A service to honour his life and celebrate our faith in Christ will take place on Thursday, June 25th, 2026 at 1:00pm at the Hillsborough Baptist Church the service will be live streamed -Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88309402885?pwd=A3bTRUsQuI8GrrZUvRoqmdZRyn8wPN.1 . A time of further fellowship and sharing memories and refreshments after the service in the Church Life Center.  Interment will be in the Grey's Island Cemetery, Hillsborough, NB.

 

For those who wish donations to the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated by the family.

 

Arrangements are in the care of the Albert County Funeral Home, 4130 route 114, Hopewell Cape, NB, E4H-3K2 506-734-2780