Lloyd and Ivy Trench celebrated the birth of their first-born and only daughter, Cecilia, on August 8th, 1942 in La Boca, Republic of Panama. Cecilia, much like the Saint, was incorruptible, loyal, incredibly strong and a devout Catholic. Before coming to the United States in her preteen years, Cecilia grew up in La Boca surrounded by a large family consisting of grandparents, parents, her brother, Muhammed Ali-Salaam (Emilio), several aunts, uncles and cousins who supported, nurtured and showered her with love.
Cecilia along with her family, migrated to the United States in 1950. Sheepshead Bay Brooklyn, NY was their first landing spot. Cecilia was initially enrolled at Abraham Lincoln H.S. in Coney Island, later transferring to George Wingate H.S. in the Prospect Lefferts Gardens section of the borough. Although Cecilia was an outgoing and friendly person, she didn't spend much time socializing with schoolmates, but rather opted to spend most of her time with her family members already residing in Brooklyn.
After several years in New York, Cecilia relocated to Washington, D.C., where she finished her education at McKinley H.S. where she met and eventually married Charles Edward Allen III. Cecilia and Charles welcomed their only child, Tanya Allen in March 1966.
After H.S., Cecilia worked at Chesapeake and Potomac phone company for years before returning to Brooklyn, NY in 1970. She eventually landed a job at Chase Manhattan Bank in the Wall St. area, where she was employed for over 25 years. It was at Chase where Cecilia met her 2nd husband, Francis Ballentine. The two wed in 1980, while residing in Brooklyn before eventually relocating to Eatontown, NJ in 1989. They resided in Eatontown for 32 years.
Cecilia was an incredibly warm, extremely loving, fiercely supportive person. Her smile was infectious and her sense of humor was unmatched. She relished a good conversation, especially if it called for a belly busting hearty laugh! She was incredibly loyal and undeniably supportive of anyone that needed her....and even when you did not.
Cecilia will be greatly missed by her family, friends and neighbors. The huge outpouring of love resulting from her passing is so overwhelmingly telling of how highly regarded and loved she was. She rests peacefully now and will always be missed but will always grace our lives with her loving spirit forever.
Cecilia's legacy will be carried on by her daughter Tanya Allen-Smith, son-in-law Stephan Smith, grandson Tarin Smith; her brother Muhammed Ali-Salaam, sister-in-law Waheeda Ali-Salaam and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other family and friends in the US and in the Republic of Panama.
On this incredibly sad day, we hold Cecilia close to our hearts and pray that her journey is filled with peace. We are thankful that she once again can see the light that was dimmed for so many of her later years. Take comfort knowing that she is finally free. Open your wings beautiful soul and fly!
On behalf of Arleen’s children we want to extend our condolences with her daughter, Tanya, grandson, Tarin, son-in-law Stephen and her other family members and friends.
Cecilia was a beautiful , joyful person in and out. Cecilia will be surely missed by all of us. We will keep you all in our prayers.
Her spirit was so amazing, she was another beautiful sister. We had many hilarious and warm moments . I would loved to have more. Cecilia is one of the lords Angels. As she joins my mom and the others up in heaven.
To My beautiful cousin Tanya, I love ❤️ and adore you, Stephen and Tarin
She will always be remembered as very kind, fun to be with and having an awesome laugh. Love always to mi primera prima Tanya, Stephen and Tarin.
My deepest sympathies on this very sad day for our family. Yet we know it is a day of triumph for my dear cousin Cecilia. She has successfully completed her life here. And left a wonderful legacy in her daughter, filled with Cecilia’s beautiful light.
We will all continue to cherish her memory as we recall her sweet smile and the nugget of wisdom which would in turn put a smile on our own faces.
Cecilia for me, was in a unique category of family. Although she was a cousin, which made her a peer, she was also older, which made her an adult. This for me gave me precious access and a bridge to a world I was nervously anticipating, but my cousin Cecilia made it all seem less scary.
I will continue to hear her voice in my heart: One with her own twist on the unique vocal chords she inherited from her mom, Ivy.
Farewell and Godspeed Cuzzo. We shall meet again and laugh out loud!
Our cousin Cecilia, your love, warmth,, laughter and wisdom will be missed. Know that Tanya is not alone….We’ll continue to love up on her and always remember you….Rest Well and please give our love to our loved ones…..❤??
This is the perfect photo and written description of Cecilia. She was the a great auntie. Her smile and laugh were the best. Love to Tanya, Stephen, Tarin, Dad and Mom as well as all her family and friends, from Pia and family
Sending my heartfelt prayers and love to my sister Tanya, nephew Tarin, and brother-in-law Steve. Remember the wonderful times, hold onto the love she gave you, and know that another angel had gained her wings. She’s with you always. Love you all.?
The Allen Family was sadden to learn of the death of Cecilia and our prayers and thoughts are with her daughter, Tanya, grandson, Tarin, son-in-law, Stephan, and her other many family and friends. In our prayers are with you and we know that she will forever remain in your hearts.
Jean Allen