Steven R. Allman, 67, of Pensacola, Florida, formerly of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away March 23, 2026, leaving behind a trail of good food, great stories and more than a few people who could still hear his laugh from across the room.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Mildred “Millie” Allman of Richmond, Indiana.
Steve was born and raised in Richmond, Indiana, and graduated from Richmond High School in 1977, where he made a name for himself in art and music. He carried that creative spirit with him to the Columbus College of Art and Design, majoring in fashion illustration and excelling enough to be recruited straight out of school by Davidson’s Department Store (later Macy’s) in Atlanta.
Over the years, Steve proved he could reinvent himself as easily as he could start a conversation. He moved from fashion illustration into fashion and product photography, then into graphic design and layout work for Haverty’s Furniture. Somewhere along the way, he also built a parallel career in the kitchen — because apparently being good at one thing just wasn’t enough.
Cooking wasn’t just a job for Steve; it was a lifelong love. He worked as head chef, contributed his talents to Project Open Hand and served as a cater-waiter at the Carter Center, where he had the distinct honor of being personally requested by Mrs. Rosalynn Carter — something he was equal parts proud of and amused by.
Steve could talk to anyone, anywhere about just about anything. His booming laugh made sure you knew exactly where he was in the room. At the same time, he guarded his private life closely — proof that you can be both the life of the party and the first one to quietly slip out the door.
In 2002, Steve relocated to Pensacola, where he turned his attention to renovating his home and living life a bit more on his own terms. Later, he took his skills on the road (and sea), traveling extensively as a chef on service ships.
He is survived by his sister, Natalee “Cookie” Allman; his niece, Shelley Lamb; and a wide circle of friends and neighbors who have stories about him — some which are probably safe to share — including Mark Para, Jeanne Hall, Jean Bean, and Robert and Regina Williams.
Steve will be remembered for his creativity, his independence, his sharp wit and his ability to leave people smiling — whether through a conversation, a meal or that unmistakable laugh.
In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to “The Trevor Project,” a suicide prevention & crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people: https://give.thetrevorproject.org.