Our History

GOING BACK IN TIME

Our History

Allen Memorial Home traces its origins to the early work of John J. Allen, who began serving families as an undertaker in the 1880s. His son, J. Rennie “J.R.” Allen, joined the business at a young age and quickly became a driving force in its growth and evolution. At a time when funeral service was largely informal, J.R. pursued professional training and embraced innovation, becoming one of the earliest licensed undertakers and embalmers in New York.

J.R. was known as a pioneer in the profession, introducing Broome County’s first automobile hearse and continually seeking better ways to serve families. In 1915, the Allen family relocated the business to Endicott, recognizing the village’s growing importance. In 1937, J.R. constructed a modern brick funeral home on East Main Street—an ambitious project that ultimately became the foundation of Allen Memorial Home as it exists today.

Following J.R.’s passing in 1953, his son Ward Allen continued the family tradition until his retirement in 1971. Today, Allen Memorial Home is guided by principals Mark Rollo and Chris Putrino, who carry forward the same philosophy that defined J.R.’s work: thoughtful innovation, professional excellence, and unwavering respect for the families served.