ATLANTA — A metro Atlanta family is mourning the loss of the visionary founder of the New Black Wall Street Market, Lecester "Bill" Allen, according to his family. He was 80.
Family said he died last week. He was locally known as "The Wiz" because of his will to see "potential when others saw obstacles."
"While the loss of our loved one is deeply felt, we are determined to run with his same spirit as his dream is truly becoming a reality. Now is the time for an amazing shift, and no stones will be left unturned until the words and ideas of this great man become the footprint of the City of Stonecrest, Georgia, 'Ownership, Ownership, Ownership,'" his family added in the statement.
He is most notably known for founding the New Black Wall Street Market in Stonecrest, which opened in 2021. The market is inspired by the history of Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which was destroyed during the Tulsa massacre.
According to the family, Allen also launched the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute, an organization that helps marginalized communities in the business industry.
"Allen was a pioneer and iconic businessman who served as an inspiration for countless entrepreneurs throughout the state of Georgia and across the nation," a family statement added.
Family members added that he was the largest commercial landowner in Stonecrest and would be recognized for his devotion to the Black community.
Loved ones said that he has increased the number of minority and women-led owned establishments and contributed over $100 million to students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
"Mr. Allen worked tirelessly to break down barriers while also changing economic landscapes that ultimately led to increased visibility and more support for Black-owned businesses," the statement said.
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