Loyd Odell Allen, 81, of Dawsonville, died July 8, 2011.

Born March 21, 1930 in Cartersville to the late Frank and Emma Allen, he had lived in Dawson County more than 50 years.

Mr. Allen retired from the Merchant Marines with the U.S. Steel after 44 years of service. A loving father and grandfather, "Papa," his children, Michael Allen, Scott Allen, Kay Allen; great-grandson, Dameon Konz; stepfather, Willie White; a sister and a brother, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his children, Stanley and Vicky Allen of Dawsonville, Debbie and Tommy Lamb of Cumming, Otis McClain and Lucy Allen of Dahlonega, Tracy and David Britt of Asheville, N.C.; five sisters; four brothers; special grandchildren, Kristi and Kenneth Sanders, Tim Evans Jr.; special great-grandchildren, Megan Jesperson, Abigail Jesperson, Kenneth Anders; other grandchildren, Loyd Devin Allen, Dana Davis, Alecia Britt, Scarlett Allen, Colt Allen, Gracie Allen, Elizabeth Allen, Ashley Albano, Tiffany Fister; adopted grandchildren, Brandy Lawson, Donald Butler; 10 other great-grandchildren; mother of his children, Wilda Pirkle; various other relatives also survive.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. July 11 at Bearden Funeral Home Chapel with the Revs. Fred Enlow, Tommy Lamb and Kenneth Sanders officiating.

Bearden Funeral Home of Dawsonville was in charge of the arrangements.