Matt Allen

Matt knew his way around an engine and made a living out of it. Running Allen Automotive gave him a space to work on what he knew best; cars, machines and anything that needed fixing. Matt could talk to anybody. It didn’t matter if you were family, a friend or someone he’d never seen before, he’d still find something to say and lend a helping hand.

Outside of work, Matt lived for the freedom of the road riding his motorcycle or enjoying the day at the car races with his family. If it had wheels or horsepower, it had his attention. Above all, family was the constant in his life. He never missed an opportunity to create memories with them—especially on the many family trips to Branson, MO and various other destinations over the years. Nothing brought him more joy than his children and grandchildren, who were the light of his life and the center of every story he shared. Family gatherings, no matter how simple, were made special by Papa Matt’s laughter, teasing humor and quiet, steady love.

On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, Matt passed from this life at the age of 48 years old. He leaves behind a family who will forever feel his absence, but carry his spirit forward with gratitude: his beloved children, his cherished grandchildren and the close family members who shared life’s joys and burdens with him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Thornton, stepfather, Michael Thornton Sr., son Cody Cooper, and two grandchildren Neveah Adair, and Claire “Baby Ana” Johnson.

Those left to cherish his memory include his father, Gary Allen, wife, Laura Allen of the home, his children, Alex Allen and wife Sarah and Tanya Allen, both of Pennsylvania, stepchildren, Payton Thompson of Little Kansas, OK, Christopher Thompson Jr. of Tahlequah, OK, Rebecca Cooper-Sanders of Tailholt, OK, Jessica Cooper of Tahlequah, OK and Brittny Thompson of Tahlequah, OK. He also leaves his brother, Michael Thornton Jr., sisters, Julia Thornton and Tammy Paxton. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren: Laura Allen, Marlee Allen, step-grandchildren, Gabriella Sopher, Aubrey Sierra, Paisley Smith, Jabrey Sanders, Heaven Sanders, Kynzlie Sanders, Amarillo Sky, Aiden Cooper, Shon Adair, Harmonee Adair, Carsynn Johnson, Hunter Johnson, Raylynn Johnson, Tyanna Thompson, Stormy Thompson, Saylah Thompson, Kalem Thompson, Charlotte Thompson and one grandchild on the way, as well as nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones.

Per his request, a private and simple gathering will be held at a later date. He will be laid to rest at Blue Springs Cemetery in Gideon.