With loving hearts we celebrate the life of Kathy Lynn Lester Allen. She was a beacon of light and a pillar of strength for all who had the privilege of knowing her. From her birth on July 7, 1949, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to her peaceful return to her Heavenly Father on April 15, 2024, Kathy exemplified the adjectives that defined her life: loving, loyal, dedicated, and resilient. Her life was a living testament of her faith, as a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As stated in Proverbs 31:28, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”

Kathy’s life was marked by her dedication to the roles that mattered most to her: that of a beloved wife, a nurturing mother, and a faithful servant. She married her sweetheart, Lance, on July 1, 1967, and their love story, spanning over 56 years, was one of pure devotion and unwavering commitment. For 55 years, Kathy served as the director of operations for the Allen household, raising their children with love, patience, and wisdom. Her daughters were the pride and joy of her life. Kathy’s dedication extended beyond her family, as she served her community in various capacities, but notably in the capacity of Commissioner of welfare and safety for the Provo and Orem areas.

Kathy’s resilient spirit was reflected in her varied interests and accomplishments. She was a passionate homemaker and loved family history, temple work, emergency preparedness, and art. Kathy’s oil paintings were particularly cherished, each piece a vivid expression of her vibrant spirit and love for life. Her religious involvement was deeply rooted, serving in various ward and stake callings, notably over 30 years in the Primary organization. Kathy lived in multiple places including Salt Lake City, Utah, North Hills, California, Chatsworth, California, Alpine, Utah, and finally Cedar Hills, Utah. Through all these changes, Kathy’s love for her husband and her family remained her guiding star.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth Lester and Maurine Jorgensen. Her memory lives on in the hearts of her brother, Gary Lester, devoted husband, Lance, and her loving daughters, Kristine Recalde (Tony Recalde), Kenna Mills (Brad Mills), Kari Brown (Michael Brown), Kelly Kennard (Kirtis Kennard), Kimberly Powell (Bud Powell) and her 21 grandchildren.

Let us honor Kathy’s life by sharing our memories, stories, and photos on her memorial page, celebrating the life of a remarkable woman whose influence reached far beyond the boundaries of her home. Her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire us all.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. in the Cedar Hills 9th Ward chapel located at 4580 West Cedar Hills Drive, Cedar Hills, Utah. Friends and family may attend a viewing in the same location from 12:30-1:45 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will take place in the Salt Lake City Cemetery following the services.

Kathy Lynn Allen Livestream