Richard Allen passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the age of 92. A loving father, grandfather, and friend to many, Richard will be remembered for his warmth, his intellect, his humor, and his devotion to family, life-long learning, and Judaism.

He was born on January 27, 1933 in Rochester, NY, and his career had many roles: as an opera singer, a cantor, a rabbi, and a teacher. As a singer, he built his career mostly in France and Germany, but eventually refocused on being a Cantor first in Mount Vernon and Rochester, as well as decades at Congregation Keneseth Israel in Elkins Park, PA. He was later ordained as a Rabbi and took special joy in teaching and counseling young people – something he considered among his most meaningful work.

Richard was predeceased by his beloved wife, Valerie J. Allen, and his daughter, Alissa Newett. He is survived by his children, David (Maureen) Allen, Michael Allen (Eun-Mi Shim), and Cara (David) Bracamonte; and grandchildren Madeleine and Rebecca Allen, Jordan and Hannah Allen-Shim, Marissa and Joe Bracamonte, and Aria Newett. His is also survived by his great-granddaughter Lyla Alissa Levy.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 1 PM in The Chapel at Brighton Memorial Chapel (3325 Winton Road South). CLICK HERE for a map to the funeral home.

For those unable to attend in person, please CLICK HERE to livestream the service.

A procession will follow to Britton Road Cemetery (188 Britton Road, Rochester, New York 14612), and a reception/Shiva will be held at Temple B’rith Kodesh (2131 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, New York 14618) from 3–6 PM. CLICK HERE for a map to Temple B’rith Kodesh.

The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this time.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Opera Foundation in Richard’s memory.  His legacy lives on in the music he shared, the lives he touched, and the wisdom he passed down.