Mr. Allen was born in Lufkin, Texas on August 4, 1945, to Randell Daniel Allen and Ima Eola “White” Allen. After graduating from Lufkin High School in 1963, he joined the Air Force and was trained as a Personnel Specialist; he served a 30-day temporary assignment in Vietnam in 1965.
Two years into his 4-year enlistment, he was named Airman in Charge of Airman’s Records and had five Airmen working for him. After leaving the Air Force, he attended Dallas County Junior College; then transferred to Southern Methodist University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration.
He then was assistant to the city manager in Marshall, Texas, City Manager of Fort Scott, Kansas. City Manager of Lafayette, Colorado and City Manager of Seagoville, Texas. He then taught a GED course for Dallas ISD. He was proud to have helped over 100 adults obtain their GED degree.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Randell and Ima Allen; brothers Ray Allen, Tommy Gene Allen and Travis Allen. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 53 ½ years, Josephine Allen; sisters Evelyn Allen Rice and Shirley Allen Thornton and numerous nephews, nieces and great nephews and nieces.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to
American Heart Association,
7272 Greenville Ave
Dallas, Texas 75231
www.heart.org/
Condolences may be offered at www.gipsonfuneralhome.com
Services have been placed in the trust of Gipson Funeral Home.
