Ray Allen 1942-2024 - rest in eternal peace. 
I’ve known Ray all my life. Mum taught him to dance and he met me when I was a baby. 
Then we knew each other thorough the Methodist Association of Youth Clubs when Central Methodist participated in the MAYC gala events including at the Royal Albert Hall. 
Later, he was the boss at Lincoln YMCA where I’d see him from time to time at Mum’s Thursday dance club and because Phoenix Players Tony Fielding-Raby also worked with Ray. 
As I went to watch ACTion Theatre at Terry O’Toole theatre in North Hykeham, there he was on stage, usually playing the foil to another character. 
Then, in 2013 I was putting together a Lincoln / Newark drama company for Theatre Imp’s debut ‘Irena’s Vow’ for Feb 2014 and I asked Ray to play Henry Weinbaum, a non-speaking role, who was one of the Jewish friends that Polish Catholic Irena Gut rescued. Ray also played the Mayor whose speech at the end, closed the play. 
Ray was small but he was mighty, the lads at the YM certainly knew that he was in charge and wouldn’t tolerate disrespect. 
He was the most generous of men, in heart, time and knowledge. I remember him always bringing Adam to rehearsals without asking for any ££ for petrol.
He always wished all women Happy Mothers Day and all men got the same treatment on Fathers Day. 
A gentleman and a fun person to spend time wish. 
Ray, you are missed by all who knew you.