The oldest of three siblings, Louisville native Elmer Lucille Allen was the only one in her family to complete high school, graduating from Central in 1949. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in general education with a degree in chemistry and mathematics from Nazareth College (now Spalding University). In 1966 she joined Brown-Forman as their first African American chemist. After more than 30 years as a senior analytical chemist, she retired in 1997.
Here’s a photo tribute to Elmer:
Photos by Patti Hartog
P.S. Read more about Elmer Lucille Allen’s story here.
What a fabulous woman. What a wonderful life. She left a legacy that will be remembered forever
I am so very excited to see Ms Allen life celebrated! She is a great example of how to live your life to the fullest through each of its journeys. She is an ideal role model for not just African-American women, but women of all colors and men. She has shown us that through grace, determination, strength, and love how to live a life with meaning and purpose. I have been blessed to know her. Bravo! Ms Allen.
Ms. Lucille,
as I call her, is my mentor and friend. She cares about her community and her friends, with care and compassion. She makes each person feel as though he/she is her only concern at the moment. She is talented, and a life long learner. Her answer to a request that involves her heart and time is usually “yes.
I am privileged and honored to have her as a friend!
Dr. Madeline Maupin Hicks