Beloved Community Spotlight

Paul Allman has been a part of St. Margaret’s community since 2013, drawn first by the warmth of the people and the beauty of the music—and staying because of the authenticity he found.

A cradle Episcopalian, Paul’s faith journey has had periods of wandering and return, but St. Margaret’s felt different: genuine people who truly care for one another, grounded in worship, ministry and a shared love of Jesus.

Paul met his wife, Elizabeth Whitley Allman, at St. Margaret’s in the years following the pandemic. Through shared involvement in parish activities and La Mesa, a friendship began that steadily deepened. A retreat in 2023 helped solidify their commitment, and they were married on June 8, 2024.

Today, Paul and Elizabeth make their home in the Tara subdivision of Baton Rouge, along with their two dogs—Neko, a black lab, and Luca, a spotted greyhound.

Originally born in Newport Beach, California, Paul’s life has taken him across the country, with stops in San Diego and Woodland Hills, Ca., Pascagoula, Summit and Jackson, Ms., and Tallahassee, Fl.. He has called Baton Rouge home since January 2000.

Paul retired on December 31, 2024, after serving as Facilities Manager for St. James Episcopal Church, overseeing both the church and school. Elizabeth, a lifelong Baton Rouge resident, also retired in 2024 when her first grandchild, Grey Fennie, was born. She spent her career sharing creativity and faith as the art teacher at St. Luke’s Episcopal School.

Elizabeth has been a member of St. Margaret’s since 2020, and together they are deeply engaged in the life of the parish—participating in weekly study groups, a St. Margaret’s small group, and ministries centered on social justice. For Paul, the heart of St. Margaret’s lies in its people, its music, and its ministries, all rooted in a love of Jesus that embraces justice and affirms the dignity of every person, regardless of race, creed, gender, or affiliation.

Paul’s spiritual life continues to grow through his recovery journey in NA and AA, shaping how he lives his faith —accepting people as they are, supporting them where they are, and encouraging growth with compassion and humility.

Together, Paul and Elizabeth hope to be remembered as followers of Jesus, loving parents and grandparents, and people who treated others with dignity and respect.

If you see Paul around St. M’s, take a moment to say hello. You’ll find someone whose faith is lived thoughtfully, generously, and with an open heart—and who is always glad to connect.