With gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Allen Dee Meddles, age 79, announces his passing on September 18, 2026, at his home in Lyden, New Mexico surrounded by his family and close friends.

Allen was born on February 6, 1947, in Deming, New Mexico, to Alva Lee Meddles and Emma Sophia Meddles. Throughout his 79 years, Allen lived a life defined by faith, family, service, friendship, and a genuine kindness toward others.

One of the greatest blessings of Allen's life was his marriage to Bernice Meddles. They were married on June 15 and shared 58 wonderful years of marriage, building a life together filled with love, family, adventures, and countless memories. Through all the seasons of life, Bernice remained his partner and companion, and the family they created together was among Allen's greatest sources of pride and joy.

Allen and Bernice were blessed with two children, Quinton S. Meddles and his wife, Samantha Meddles, and Shellie R. Alarid and her husband, Jon Javier Alarid. Allen and Bernice also adopted their nephew Roy Conn at the age of 12 and took him in as one of their own.

Allen was a proud and loving grandfather to five grandchildren: Christian Alarid and his wife, Sarah Alarid; Emma "Grey" Alarid; Connor Meddles; Elijah Meddles; and Sawyer Meddles. The time he spent with his family was precious to him, and the memories they made together will be treasured for generations.

Allen is also remembered by his brother, Dennis Meddles, and his wife, Ruth Meddles, and his sister, Yvette Tuder.

Allen also understood that family was not defined by blood alone. Throughout his life, he was blessed with treasured friends whom he loved and considered family, including Martin, Rachael and Anna Romero; Catalina and Felix Padilla; Robert Zimmermen; Cara and Orlando Cordova; Rod and Rose Montoya; Justin Gambino and Family; Denis and Kathy Rice: Bill and Marline Beene, and the Williams family in CO; Their friendship and the memories they shared held a special place in Allen's heart.

Allen lived a life of service to both his country and his community. In 1969, he was drafted into the United States Army and served in Vietnam, where he worked in secure communications. During his military service, Allen received three service medals and two Bronze Stars, and he earned an Expert qualification badge in rifle shooting. His service reflected the quiet sense of responsibility and dedication that would remain part of his character throughout his life.

Following his military service, Allen went on to build a long and accomplished career at Los Alamos National Laboratory, where he worked for more than 30 years as an electrical engineer. His intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic served him well throughout his career.

Allen had a great love for the outdoors and enjoyed archery, camping, fishing, hunting, shooting, and motorcycle riding. Some of his happiest times were spent surrounded by the people he loved at the family cabin in Williams Creek in Southern Colorado. Whether enjoying the outdoors, laughing with friends and family, or simply appreciating the peaceful beauty around him, those times were especially meaningful to Allen.

Allen was an easygoing, kind, and generous man. He was the kind of person who would lend a helping hand to someone who truly needed it, never expecting recognition in return. His generosity extended far beyond those he personally knew, as he supported numerous Christian charities throughout his life.

At the very center of Allen's life was his Christian faith. He was deeply proud of his relationship with God and made his faith a part of everything he did. He loved sharing his beliefs with anyone willing to listen, not simply through his words, but through the way he lived his life. His kindness, willingness to help others, generosity, and devotion to family were all reflections of the faith he held so close to his heart.

Those who loved Allen will remember the road trips, days in the mountains, time spent at the cabin, fishing and hunting trips, motorcycle rides, conversations about faith, gatherings with friends and family, and so many ordinary moments that now seem anything but ordinary.

Most of all, they will remember Allen himself: his easygoing nature, his kindness, his willingness to help, his love for his family, and his steadfast faith.

We would like to give a special thank you to Brittnay and Frank Sandoval for all the care, devotion and love that they gave to Allen during his Cancer journey. Brittany was not only his Home Health Nurse, but Allen and his family considered the Sandoval family part of their own family.

Although saying goodbye is incredibly difficult, Allen's family finds comfort in the faith that meant so much to him throughout his life. His earthly journey may have come to an end, but the love, lessons, faith, and memories he gave to those around him will continue on.

Allen Dee Meddles was deeply loved, and he will be deeply missed. His memory will live on in every story told, every family gathering, every journey down an open road, every peaceful moment in the mountains, and in the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have known him.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Until we meet again.

Memorial Service Information

A Memorial Service celebrating the life of Allen Dee Meddles will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at: El Buen Pastor Assembly of God 609 Calle Rivera Española, NM 87532

Family and friends are warmly invited to gather in remembrance of Allen and to celebrate the life, faith, and love he shared with so many. Food and fellowship will follow the memorial service at the church, providing an opportunity to share stories, memories, and time together in Allen's honor.

Allen will be laid to rest at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at a later date. The date and time of the burial are still being determined and will be shared with family and friends once arrangements have been finalized.

In Lieu of Flowers

In keeping with Allen's strong Christian faith and his lifelong generosity toward others, the family kindly asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made in the Meddles family name to Justin Gambino Ministries at justingambino.com by selecting the Donate option from the website menu.

Those who prefer may instead make a memorial contribution to a Christian charity of their choice in honor of Allen and the faith that was such an important part of his life.

The family is deeply grateful for the prayers, friendship, love, and support extended to them during this difficult time.

The family of Allen Meddles has entrusted the care of their loved one to the staff of DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Beautiful Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477