Allen Francis Hampton, Jr.

January 10, 1947 — June 7, 2025

 

OGDEN, UT‒Allen Hampton, a man whose life radiated genuine kindness, unwavering faith, and devoted service to his family, church, and community, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 78.

     Born in Ogden, Utah, in 1947 to Allen Hampton Sr. and Ruth (Hadlock) Hampton, Allen grew up immersed in the legacy of the family business, Hampton's Cleaners. Founded by his grandfather Edward in 1917 and operated by his father in downtown Ogden, the cleaners became more than a business to Allen; it became a way to connect with and serve the people of his beloved hometown.

     Following his graduation from Ogden High School, Allen answered a call to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the West German Mission, an experience profoundly dear to his heart and formative to his character. Upon his return, he pursued higher education with dedication, earning a degree in Chemistry from Weber State College in 1972. He cherished his alma mater and remained a proud supporter as a member of the Wildcat Club Emeritus. His academic journey continued at the prestigious Wharton Business School at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned his MBA. It was during his time in Philadelphia that he met the love of his life, Sharyn Kimball of Provo. They were later married in the Salt Lake City Temple and have been married for 51 years.

     Following his graduation from Wharton, Allen applied his talents at major corporations including DuPont and Mobil Oil. However, in 1982, Allen and Sharyn chose to return to his roots in Ogden. Allen rejoined the family business, dedicating himself not only to Hampton's Cleaners but also to raising his cherished family. He and Sharyn were blessed with three daughters: Erin, Annie, and Emily, who in turn gave him six adored grandchildren.

At Hampton's Cleaners, Allen embodied service. He famously expressed his deep affection for Ogden, stating, "I love Ogden and the nicest people in Utah shop at Hampton’s Cleaners." For Allen, customers were never just transactions; they were friends. This philosophy fueled his extraordinary generosity. He consistently donated cleaning services to vital community organizations like the YCC, the Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo, and local churches of all denominations. In a touching display of patriotism and holiday spirit, he cleaned any Santa Claus suit or American flag free of charge and was a longtime, dedicated supporter of the Salvation Army Christmas Tree Program. He also valued fellowship and service through his active participation in the Ogden Rotary Club. Allen's love for music and community shone through his participation in a beloved singing quintet, harmonizing at numerous church and community events over the years.

     A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Allen's love for people found its deepest expression in his dedicated church service. He served faithfully in numerous callings, including as a member of bishoprics and as Bishop of the Ogden 41st Ward. He genuinely cherished others, and many of his most treasured memories stemmed from the families he ministered to and served within the church. He often reflected on how these relationships profoundly changed and enriched his own life. In his final week, his family gathered closely at his side, listening as he fondly recounted stories of his youth, his cherished mission, the people he ministered to, and the camaraderie of church basketball and Little League baseball – memories cherished then and now as a nostalgic legacy of his vibrant spirit.

Allen Hampton's legacy is one of quiet service, steadfast faith, and profound kindness. He served diligently at work, within his cherished church callings, and above all, within his family. He leaves behind a community grateful for his generosity, a church family strengthened by his faith and leadership, and a loving family who will forever cherish his caring spirit, his music, and the stories he shared until the end.

Allen is survived by his loving wife, Sharyn; his daughters, Erin (Jesse) Hartigan, Annie, and Emily (Mike) Child; his six grandchildren; his sister, Joan Hampton Smith; and countless friends whose lives he touched. He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen Sr. and Ruth.

     Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Pleasant Valley Stake Center Chapel, 5640 South 850 East, Ogden. Friends may visit with family on Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. and Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment, Ogden City Cemetery.