Novella Allen

With heavy hearts yet a spirit of celebration, we mark the passing of Novella Allen, born on the 3rd of May, 1923, in Dover, North Carolina. She took her rest on the 4th of January, 2026 at 2:26 pm, at the age of 102 at her home. Novella was a beacon of resilience and joy, her life a testament to the power of love, faith, and the human spirit. She was a funny and adventurous woman who brought laughter and excitement to every room she entered. Novella was known for her lively spirit, and her zest for life was infectious. Her light may have dimmed on this earthly plane, but it continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Novella was a devoted member of the 10th Street Baptist Church for many years. Her faith was unwavering, and she found comfort and strength in verses such as Psalm 46:1-2, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear." Novella was a soul who lived her life with courage and optimism, exhibiting an adventurous spirit that inspired everyone around her.

In her remarkable journey of life, Novella transitioned from working as a domestic worker during her early years to becoming an excellent cook working at several establishments, a testament to her resilience and strength. She cherished her family above all, adoring her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Her love for them was evident in her travels to attend their weddings, birthdays, and graduation celebrations.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jackson Cox; mother, Olive Cox; her beloved husband, David Allen; son, Bobby Southerland; grandson, Yuri Southerland; brothers, Johnny Cox, Jessie Cox, Obie Cox; and six sisters, Annie Mae Thompson, Arzetta Suggs, Lena Cox, Melli Cox Hart, Palmetta White, and Bessie Harrison. Novella is survived by her son, Roy Lee Southerland; her daughter-in-law Ernestine Southerland; her granddaughters Ashley (Gavin) Southerland, Dana (Kris) Knisely Southerland, Melissa (Ernest) Dorson, Tyra Wallace, Nia Wallace Ward, Erica Glasgow, and Leora Glasgow; and her grandson, Christopher (Kianna) Southerland Sr. She leaves to cherish her sweet memory 18 great-grandchildren, several great-great-grandchildren; and a host of relatives, family and friends. During her final years, it was her loving and endearing niece, Jacqueline Hart, who served as her caregiver.

We invite all who knew Novella to join us in celebrating her life. A wake will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. ET at Not About Me Ministries, 3106 Branch Avenue, Temple Hills, Maryland, 20748. The homegoing celebration will follow at the same venue at 11:00 a.m. ET. Interment will take place at 1:00 p.m. ET at the Washington National Cemetery, 4101 Suitland Road, Suitland-Silver Hill, Maryland, 20746. A repast will be held at Not About Me Ministries, 3106 Branch Avenue, Temple Hills, Maryland, 20748, immediately after interment.

In the spirit of celebrating Novella's life, we encourage you to share your memories, stories, and photographs on her memorial page. Your contributions will help us all remember the funny, resilient, and adventurous woman she was. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will forever live on in our hearts.