Fern Ellen Foutz Van Allen, 91, of Terre Haute passed away at her home on Sunday, November 10, 2024.  She was born on March 3, 1933, in Sullivan County to Byron Foutz and Fern Ellen Montgomery Foutz.  Fern graduated in 1957 from the Union Hospital School of Nursing.  She worked at the hospital and doctors' offices until 1963, when she became a full-time homemaker. Fern was a devout member of the United Methodist Church, a regular attendee of Kingsley Memorial UMC and then of United Methodist Temple. For many years, she was active in the United Methodist Women's group and Sunday school classes. Her family was her most valued and precious commitment and top priority.

Fern will be dearly missed by family and friends. She was a devoted wife who lovingly put up with Harry's sense of humor. As a mother, she made sure her children were happy, while also teaching them about life's responsibilities. And to her seven grandchildren, she has left many lasting memories of a compassionate, fun-loving grandmother. Christmas time at Grandpa/Papaw and Grandma/Nana's house was very special; even into her grandchildren's adult years, they were made to wait together in another room so that Santa could deliver gifts and goodies under the Christmas tree. Keeping in touch with extended family and friends was also important to Fern and Harry. With much gratitude, friends and family cherish the lasting influence Fern and Harry had on their lives.

Fern is survived by her children Margaret Battles (Steve), Rev. Frank Van Allen (Nancy Thomas), and Martha Adams (Jamie); grandchildren Megan Battles, Justin Battles, Jordan Battles (Kayla Kyle), Chris Van Allen, Elizabeth Dixon (Noah), Jessica Van Allen, and Jacob Adams; brother-in-law Gene Gilbreath; as well as many nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband of 53 years, Harry Frank Van Allen, sisters Ruth Jane Foutz, Mary Nichols, Nellie Badger, and Stella Gilbreath, and brothers-in-law Russell Nichols and Lowell Badger.

Visitation will be held Thursday, November 14, 2024, at DeBaun Springhill Chapel from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Service will be held Friday, November 15, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at United Methodist Temple.  Reverend Frank Van Allen will officiate.  Visitation will be at the church from 10:00 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in remembrance of Fern to Kingsley Benevolent Fund, United Methodist Temple General Fund, or the Union Hospital Foundation NICU.  Online condolences may be made to www.debaunfuneralhomes.com.