Lecester “Bill” Allen, Obituary, Death: New Black Wall Street in Atlanta Mourns the Loss of Visionary Businessman and Community Pioneer at 80; Founder of Stonecrest’s Iconic Black-Owned Market Space and the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute Leaves a Legacy of Empowerment, Economic Development, and Unwavering Dedication to African American Prosperity
Lecester “Bill” Allen, Obituary, Death: New Black Wall Street in Atlanta Mourns the Loss of Visionary Businessman and Community Pioneer at 80; Founder of Stonecrest’s Iconic Black-Owned Market Space and the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute Leaves a Legacy of Empowerment, Economic Development, and Unwavering Dedication to African American Prosperity
Lecester “Bill” Allen, a man known for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the African American community, passed away last week at the age of 80. As the founder of the New Black Wall Street Market by Stonecrest Mall in Atlanta, Georgia, Allen created a thriving space for Black-owned businesses, drawing inspiration from the original Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His death marks a significant loss for the community he so passionately served.
Last week, the Allen family released a heartfelt statement expressing their profound sadness at the loss of a remarkable businessman and devoted community servant. They shared their gratitude for being by his side as he passed and acknowledged the immense impact he had on countless lives. Lecester “Bill” Allen was not just a businessman; he was a beloved figure and a pillar of the Stonecrest community in Georgia, inspiring entrepreneurs across the state and the nation.
Affectionately known as “The Wiz,” Allen possessed a unique ability to see potential where others saw obstacles. His visionary approach led to the creation of numerous platforms designed to help African American and minority entrepreneurs build and grow their businesses. Through these initiatives, he fostered economic independence and developed community resilience, leaving an indelible mark on the local and national landscape.
One of Allen’s most notable achievements was the founding of the New Black Wall Street Market in Stonecrest, Georgia. This market aimed to recreate and revitalize the spirit of the original Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, providing a space where Black entrepreneurs could thrive. The market became a hub of economic activity, showcasing the talents and products of African American businesses and contributing to the economic vitality of the area.
In addition to the market, Allen launched the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute, an organization dedicated to helping marginalized communities by connecting them with essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. His efforts were instrumental in breaking down barriers and creating pathways to success for many aspiring entrepreneurs. As the largest commercial landowner in the City of Stonecrest, Allen’s initiatives garnered worldwide support, and his vision for the New Black Wall Street brought significant economic development to the city.
Allen’s dedication to African American prosperity was unparalleled. He was a staunch advocate for increasing the number of minority- and women-owned establishments, and his philanthropic efforts included contributing over $100 million to students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Through his tireless work, he changed economic landscapes, ultimately leading to increased visibility and support for Black-owned businesses.
The Allen family’s statement also emphasized their determination to continue his work and ensure that his dream becomes a reality. They expressed their resolve to carry on with his spirit, leaving no stones unturned in their efforts to realize his vision. The words and ideas of Lecester “Bill” Allen will continue to serve as the foundation for the City of Stonecrest, embodying his commitment to “Ownership, Ownership, Ownership.”
The outpouring of support from staff, friends, colleagues, and citizens of metro Atlanta, as well as the entire nation, has been a testament to the impact of Allen’s work. His legacy of empowerment and economic development will live on, inspiring future generations to strive for prosperity and success.
Lecester “Bill” Allen’s life was a testament to the power of vision and determination. Born and raised in a time when opportunities for African Americans were limited, he rose above the challenges to become a beacon of hope and progress. His journey began in a small community, where he developed an early interest in business and entrepreneurship. Recognizing the lack of resources and support for Black entrepreneurs, he set out to create opportunities where none existed.
Allen’s early ventures were modest, but his ambitions were grand. He started with small businesses, learning the intricacies of the trade and building a network of contacts. His relentless drive and keen business acumen soon set him apart, and he began to amass resources and influence. It was during these formative years that he conceived the idea of a market space that would exclusively support Black-owned businesses, drawing inspiration from the historical significance of the original Black Wall Street.
The New Black Wall Street Market was born from this vision. Located by Stonecrest Mall, it quickly became a vibrant center for commerce and community engagement. The market provided a platform for Black entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services, attracting customers from all over Georgia and beyond. The sense of community and mutual support within the market was palpable, and it became a model for similar initiatives across the country.
Allen’s vision extended beyond the market. He recognized the importance of education and mentorship in fostering long-term success for entrepreneurs. The Allen Entrepreneurial Institute was established to address this need, offering programs and resources designed to equip aspiring business owners with the skills and knowledge they needed to succeed. The institute’s impact was profound, helping to bridge gaps and create a more inclusive and supportive business environment.
As Allen’s influence grew, so did his philanthropic efforts. His commitment to supporting HBCUs was unwavering, and he dedicated significant resources to ensuring that students from marginalized communities had access to quality education. His contributions went beyond financial support; he also established mentorship programs and partnerships that provided students with real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Allen’s work was not without challenges. He faced resistance and obstacles from various quarters, but his determination and resilience saw him through. His ability to navigate these challenges and turn them into opportunities was one of his defining traits. He often spoke about the importance of perseverance and the need to stay focused on the bigger picture, lessons that resonated with many of those he mentored and supported.
In his personal life, Allen was known for his humility and generosity. Despite his success, he remained grounded and accessible, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer advice. His family, friends, and colleagues remember him as a man of integrity and compassion, whose actions were guided by a deep sense of responsibility to his community.
The legacy of Lecester “Bill” Allen is one of empowerment and progress. His life’s work has created lasting change, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. The New Black Wall Street Market and the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute stand as testaments to his vision and dedication, embodying the principles of economic independence and community resilience that he championed.
As the community mourns his passing, there is a sense of collective resolve to carry forward his mission. The foundation he laid is strong, and the momentum he created is unstoppable. The words of his family echo the sentiments of many: “While the loss of our loved one is deeply felt, we are determined to run with his same spirit as his dream is truly becoming a reality.”
In remembering Lecester “Bill” Allen, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire. His contributions to the African American community and the broader society are immeasurable, and his impact will be felt for years to come. As we reflect on his journey, we are reminded of the power of vision, determination, and the enduring importance of giving back to the community.
The story of Lecester “Bill” Allen is a story of triumph and transformation. It is a story of a man who saw potential where others saw obstacles, and who dedicated his life to creating opportunities for those who came after him. His vision for a thriving, self-sustaining African American business community has become a reality, and his work has set the stage for even greater achievements in the future.
As we look to the future, we do so with a sense of optimism and hope, knowing that the legacy of Lecester “Bill” Allen will continue to guide and inspire us. His life and work serve as a reminder of what is possible when we dare to dream and are willing to work tirelessly to bring those dreams to fruition. His spirit lives on in the New Black Wall Street Market, the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute, and in the countless lives he touched and transformed.
In conclusion, Lecester “Bill” Allen’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of empowerment and economic development will endure. His life’s work has created a foundation for future generations to build upon, and his vision for a prosperous and self-sustaining African American community is well on its way to becoming a lasting reality. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his achievements and commit ourselves to continuing his mission, ensuring that his dream of “Ownership, Ownership, Ownership” remains at the heart of our collective efforts.
