Craig Lamar Allen 1972-2011 (Complete information)

Craig L. Allen passed away unexpectedly January 21, 2011 at his home located in Turkey Creek, Alachua, FL. He was 38 years old.

Craig grew up in Cedar Key, graduating from Cedar Key High School with honors in the class of 1990. He was a member of Cedar Key United Methodist Church.

Craig, at a young age, became interested in sports. He played baseball, softball, basketball and tennis. Tennis was his passion, and he played throughout the state, winning many tournaments. He was awarded scholarships for college after high school. Craig strived to be the best he could be at every sport. He was a good athlete.

Craig attended Berry College located in Rome, GA, then transferred to the University of Central Florida where he received his Bachelors degree in Business Finance in 1995.

Craig started his career with Taylor Construction in Cedar Key, then moved to Gainesville, where he worked for Staff Leasing. He was later employed by Gevity HR, and was currently employed at SOI. He excelled in Human Resources as a Sales Agent. Craig won awards as the company`s top Agent.

GOLF! Golf was his favorite past time. Craig played for pleasure and charitable events where he received many trophies and awards. He was invited to play at the World Class Invitational in LA. His team finished 11th out of 200 teams.

GATORS! Florida Gators football and basketball were his favorite sporting events to attend. Loved those Gators!!

Craig was a devoted son, brother and friend to many. He loved life. He was loved by many and will be in our hearts forever.

He is survived by his parents Herman and Jan Allen of Cedar Key; sister Jana Cathey and husband Graham of Charlotte, NC; brothers Andy Allen and wife Shirlene of Cedar Key, Gregg Allen and wife Nancy of Rome, GA, Russell Allen of Acworth, GA; aunts and uncles, Marge and B.M. Smith of Silver Creek, GA, Carol and Hughdon Edwards of Summerville, GA, Nickie and Bill Rucker of Orlando, FL, Rosemary and Dave Cooke of Austin, TX and Suzanne Allen of Summerville, GA; 3 nieces, Amy, Danielle, Shealene; 3 nephews, Michael, Waylan, Liam.

He was preceded in death by his brother John Eric Allen, grandparents Andrew and Madge Johnson and Eva and Ernest Allen; Uncle Lewis Allen; Aunts Nancy Jo Allen and Beatrice Jones.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at Hiers Baxley Funeral Home in Chiefland, from 6 to8 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 26, at the United Methodist Church in Cedar Key, at 2 p.m., followed by burial at Cedar Key Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care of Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, 1301 N. Young Blvd., Chiefland, FL 32626, 352-493-0050. On line condolences may be sent through our website at www.hiers-baxley.com.