Age 97, New Market, Va.
Allen D. Johnson, 97, of New Market, Virginia, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025.
He was born April 12, 1927, in Sperryville, Virginia, and was a son of Lawrence E. Johnson and Eva Love Johnson.
Allen was a veteran of WWII, serving in the U.S. Merchant Marine from 1945 to 1946 and earning the rank of First Class Petty Officer. He received the WWII Victory Medal, the Atlantic War Zone Medal, and the Congressional Gold Medal for his service during WWII. Allen enlisted at age 17, with the blessing of his father, who signed for him to join the Merchant Marine. After the war, in 1946, he began working at the Rappahannock National Bank in Washington, Virginia. In May 1951, he left Rappahannock to serve in the Army during the Korean War, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant.
On October 13, 1956, he married his Dottie — the former Dorothy Poe of Marshall, Virginia. They lived 64 years together in New Market, establishing a happy family and working together to serve others, until Dottie died at age 96 on March 25, 2021.
Allen came to New Market in 1954 at the age of 26 to become CEO of the Citizens National Bank and served in that capacity for 27 years. During his time at Citizens National Bank, his focus was on improving the community, helping grow local businesses with the help of the Small Business Administration, and promoting industrial growth in New Market and the surrounding area as far away as Flint Hill, Virginia. From 1969-1970, he was chairman of the Virginia Bankers’ Association Group III, which extended from the Potomac River to Lexington, Virginia. During the following year he was a director on the Board of the Virginia Bankers’ Association. After leaving Citizens National Bank, he became a consultant for financial institutions in Virginia and West Virginia during the Savings and Loan crisis. He also was Chairman of the Board of the First Federal Savings Bank of Front Royal during this time.
Living in New Market, enjoying the beautiful scenery, and being an avid golfer, Allen served as a Director of Shenvalee Lodge, Inc., for nearly 60 years, including as Vice President and Treasurer. In 1981, he established Johnson Associates, a financial services business on Congress Street, which still manages low-interest student loans and administers a trust to benefit persons with disabilities. He committed his time and resources to improving New Market.
Allen participated in many community activities and organizations. As a New Market Rotary Club member for 70 years, he was President, Secretary, and Treasurer, and was one of the first Paul Harris Fellows. He also was active in the New Market Chamber of Commerce, serving as President and Treasurer. He was involved with the New Market Industrial Development Committee, which became the New Market Development Corporation, where he served as Vice President and Treasurer. The Development Corporation secured industries for the New Market area including Aileen, Inc., Kennametal Corporation, Howell Metal Corporation, Harrisonburg Paper Box, Inc., and Caroline Poultry Corporation. Allen was also Chairman of the fund-raising committee for the New Market Community Park.
For many years he was active with and President of the New Market Rebels. You could find him and Dottie in their regular seats at home games on many summer nights. He was a member of the ACCA Temple Shrine in Richmond, and Mt. Jackson Masonic Lodge 103. He was a member of Caverns Shrine Club in Luray, and Valley Shrine Club in Harrisonburg. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2447 and a member of the American Legion Post 166. Allen also served as Chairman of the Financial Control Board of the New Market Fire Department.
Although Allen viewed himself as an Independent — “I vote for the person and not the party,” — he was happy to campaign and act as treasurer for the four Congressional terms of the Honorable John O. Marsh, Jr., who later worked as an advisor in the White House and for our country as Secretary of the Army.
Allen served the church he loved, Manor Memorial United Methodist Church, with pleasure and dedication for many years. He chaired the Administration Board, the Board of Trustees, and the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee. Additionally, he led the Fund-Raising Committee for multiple building programs.
Allen was predeceased by brothers Robert and Carson, and sisters Dorothy Rector, Kate Partlow, and Louise Johnson. He is survived by one sister, Mary Elizabeth Clatterbuck, a sister-in-law, Aline Johnson, and former son-in-law, Bill Bowman (Deb). He is survived by two devoted daughters: Judy J. Bradley (Greg) of New Market, and Brenda J. Wunder (Tom) of Stephens City, grandchildren Elizabeth Bowman McLaughlin, Rebecca Bowman Coursen, Alissa Bowman Curtis, AJ Wunder, Alex Wunder, and thirteen great-grandchildren, as well as several generations of nieces and nephews, all of whom he adored.
Allen and his family appreciate his many caregivers, especially Tiffany Walker, Stefan Bruce, Catalina Yanez, and Debbie Wolfe. He and his family are blessed to have walked in partnership with Blue Ridge Hospice during his end-of-life journey. His family also wishes to express appreciation to his loving church family and friends in the community, especially his dear friend, Tom “Skip” Constable.
Allen always provided opportunities for people to improve their circumstances. He helped anyone in the community that he could. He had an illustrious career but was a humble man of abiding integrity and deep faith who never lost sight of his roots from the east side of the mountain. He knew he was fortunate to make his home in New Market and to serve the people of Shenandoah County. He was a pleasure to be around and made others feel welcomed. He will be remembered for his quick wit, rotating list of dad jokes, and loving spirit. His character and kindness touched many lives, and he leaves a positive legacy that will continue for generations.
A celebration of life will be held at Manor Memorial United Methodist Church on Friday, April 4, 2025, with visitation at 11:30 am in Farrow Hall and a service at 1 pm.
Allen wished that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to Manor Memorial United Methodist Church, 9320 N. Congress St., New Market, VA 22844; the Georgia Bowman Trust (benefiting individuals with disabilities), P.O. Box 810, New Market, VA 22844; or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are being handled by The Bradley Funeral Home in Luray, Va.
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