Tommye Lou Allen

Tommye Lou Allen passed away peacefully on November 15, 2012. Born in Mexia, TX on March 19, 1933, Tommye was the daughter of Lynette Rogers Brown of Mexia and Marion F. "Bomber" Brown of Corsicana. She spent her early childhood in Mexia before moving to El Paso with her family. She graduated from El Paso's Austin High School where she was voted Queen of Austin in Action and was a member of the school dance team and drama club. Tommye attended the University of Texas at Austin where she became a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority chapter and a lifelong Longhorn fan. While serving as the Social Chairman for the Tri-Delts, she met her husband to be, J. R. "Potsy" Allen and they were married on February 4, 1956. They began their life together during his service in the Navy and were stationed in Kingsville, TX, Pensacola, FL, and Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego.

Following Naval service and the birth of their two sons, they lived in Roswell, NM, for several years where they made many lasting good friends before returning to Austin in 1965. An active member of Austin society, Tommye was a member of the Junior League and also owned an antique store called Heavenly Antiques. She also spent many years working as a senior community placement manager for the Mexia State School where she specialized in finding good homes for the school's most disabled clients. She was loved by staff and clients alike until her retirement.

For her whole life, Tommye was an ardent fan of movies, music and dance. Her presence, and her unstoppable sense of humor will be greatly missed by those who knew her and loved her. In her day, she was the brightest of lights. Throughout her life, she remained her children's and grand-children's biggest champion. Tommye is survived by her sons, J.R. Allen III of Houston; Todd Allen and wife, Dara, of Austin and grand-daughters Mackenzie Allen and Shelby Allen, who shares her birthday.

Private services for family and friends will be held at a later date.