Former state Rep. Robert “Bob” Allen, a former Pottsville mayor who represented the 125th Legislative District for 18 years, has died at age 81.
Local elected officials and Republican leaders remembered Allen for his decades of public service, his guidance to fellow elected officials, and the role he and his late wife, Peggy, played in Schuylkill County politics.
Local Leaders Remember Bob Allen
Gary Feathers Reflects on Decades of Service
Gary T. Feathers, chairman of the Schuylkill County Republican Committee, described Allen as “another pillar of the Schuylkill County Republican Party.”
“Alongside his beloved wife, Peggy, whom we sadly lost this past September, Bob played an instrumental role in helping grow, strengthen, and shape our party over the past 40 years,” Feathers said.
“Their commitment, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the Republican Party and our community will not be forgotten,” he added. “The loss of both Bob and Peggy is deeply felt, and they will be sincerely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside.”
Tim Twardzik Remembers Allen’s Guidance
State Rep. Tim Twardzik remembered Allen as a true statesman who provided an example of how to represent the community.
“He offered support and more importantly advice to me when I began my term in the House of Representatives,” Twardzik said. “He and his wife Peg set a high standard and will be missed.”
David Argall Recalls Their Friendship
State Sen. David G. Argall also reflected on Allen’s career and their friendship.
“As a young mayor of Pottsville, as an assistant to Governor Thornburgh, and as a veteran State Representative and Committee Chairman, Bob was a great friend, and very dedicated to our region. I will miss him,” Argall said.
Mayor Tom Smith Highlights Allen’s Impact on Pottsville
Pottsville Mayor Tom Smith remembered Allen as a great mentor who remained engaged in the community.
Smith noted a connection between their careers: both were sworn in as Pottsville mayor on January 5, exactly 50 years apart.
Reflecting on Allen’s impact during his time as mayor, Smith singled out his involvement with the Pottsville Redevelopment Authority as one example of his contributions to the city.
Smith said Allen touched many aspects of the community and described him as a man of the city who went on to accomplish a great deal. He said he could not say enough about Allen and his lasting impact.
State Rep. Jamie Barton
State Rep. Jamie Barton remembered Allen for his professionalism and friendship.
“Bob was an absolute gentleman, who had the knack of politely and professionally taking over any situation that was thrown his way. We were lucky to have him here in Schuylkill County and I was blessed to call him a friend,” Barton said.
From Pottsville Mayor to the Pennsylvania House
Born in Pottsville on October 14, 1945, Allen graduated from Pottsville High School and earned a degree in business administration from Lycoming College in 1968. He also graduated from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science and became a licensed funeral director and part owner of Allen and Pugh Funeral Home in Pottsville.
According to the Pennsylvania House Archives, Allen served as Pottsville mayor from 1976 through 1981. He later worked in Gov. Dick Thornburgh’s administration as legislative liaison for the Department of Environmental Resources from 1983 through 1985 and deputy secretary of legislative affairs in the Governor’s Office from 1985 through 1986.
Allen won election to the Pennsylvania House in 1988 and began serving in 1989. He represented the 125th District for nine consecutive terms, concluding his legislative service in 2006. The district included portions of Schuylkill, Northumberland and Berks counties at different points during his tenure.
Child Safety and Workers’ Compensation Legislation
During his House career, Allen served as Republican chairman of the Labor Relations Committee. His legislative work included measures addressing child safety and workers’ compensation.
He was the prime sponsor of House Bill 2196, which became Act 176 of 2002 and established the Shaken Baby Syndrome Education and Prevention Program.
Allen also sponsored House Bill 2738, signed into law as Act 147 of 2006. The measure revised Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation procedures and established an Uninsured Employers Guaranty Fund. It received unanimous votes in both chambers, including the House’s final approval of Senate amendments.
Later Career and Family
After leaving the Legislature, Allen worked as a consultant with Bob Allen and Associates and later became a partner in Allen-Goodman & Associates.
His passing comes less than two months after the death of his wife, Margaret “Peggy” Allen, on September 17. The couple had been married for 52 years and co-owned the former Allen & Pugh Funeral Home.
Feathers concluded his tribute with a remembrance of both: “May they both rest in peace.”
This story will be updated if we receive additional comments from other local leaders.