Allen R. Headley, age 58, of Birmingham, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11:25 AM, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on August 16, 1967, Allen lived a life defined by loyalty, humor, and a quiet, steady strength. He was a devoted husband, father, son, grandfather, brother, and friend — and to many, simply “Grampie,” a title he cherished with his whole heart.
Allen fought a courageous battle with cancer. Through every challenge, he remained loving, patient, and full of quiet determination. He was never alone, and he left this world held in the arms of those who loved him most.
Allen is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis Headley; and his children, whom he loved equally and fiercely, in order of age: Ashley (Josh) Mohror, John (Kayla) Headley, Elizabeth (Maurice) Carter, Robert (Kiara) Headley, and Chloe (Josh) Headley; and what he lovingly called his “bonus daughter,” Jennifer Derylak.
He was “Grampie” to a beautiful and lively crew of grandchildren: Abigail, Sophie, Charlotte, Joe, John, Laura, Emma, Noah, Jackson, Lincoln, and Arlo; and “bonus Grampie” to Tia and Maddie.
Allen is also survived by his siblings: Laura Headley, Opal (Tim) Phillips, Ray (Mary) Headley, and Dan (Becky) Headley; his mother, Wilma (Tom) Headley; and his mother‑in‑law, Cynthia Kelleher. He is further survived by many extended family members and friends who will forever feel the space he leaves behind.
He is preceded in death by his father, Ray Headley, and his bonus grandson, Thomas “Bubs” Grant.
Allen loved being outdoors, especially when he was fishing with his wife, kids, and grandchildren. The water was his happy place — whether he was relaxing on a pontoon boat or dreaming about the ski boat he recently purchased, hoping to watch his grandchildren ski and tube this summer. Those moments, and the ones he imagined for the future, were some of the greatest joys of his life.
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life for Allen R. Headley will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 PM at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 120 Depot Street, Geneva, Ohio. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor a man who meant so much to so many.