September 24, 1944 - September 27, 2022
Jimmy William Allen, 78, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2022 at the Hospice House in El Dorado, Arkansas.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Allen and parents, Andrew and Edith Allen. Jimmy is survived by his wife of 37 years, Donna Young Allen; his sons, Lanny Kenneth Allen (Kelly) and Joshua Perry Allen; daughter, Jessica Lee Allen and bonus daughter, Ashley Nicole Vickers; one brother, Ricky Allen; two grandchildren, Hunter Allen and Perry Allen and many family, friends, caregivers and coaching friends.
Jimmy was a graduate of Bismarck High School and Henderson State University. He was an outstanding superintendent, principal and basketball coach for over 40 years. He was successful in leading two schools off of the academic distress list, establishing successful in-school alternative learning programs in each school and was successful in obtaining many grants for additional school programs. Although he was very successful as an administrator, his true love was basketball. He loved people and believed all people to be equally important regardless of position, race or background. It gave him true joy to be the underdog or to help the underdog.
He was a highly acclaimed basketball coach, winning two back-to-back boy's state championships at McNeil High School and becoming champions or co-champions of the Arkansas Junior College Conference from 1981-1984 at Phillips County Community College. He received Arkansas Junior College Coach of the Year acclaims for two years, won the District 17 Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference Men's Basketball Championship and ranked as high as 6th in the nation at University of the Ozarks, where he was selected AIC Coach of the Year. He was honored to coach three consecutive years at the Arkansas All-Star Basketball game and won a state championship in girls track at Warren High School. His teams won numerous conferences, district and regional championships at McNeil, Junction City, Bismarck, Poyen and Warren High Schools. He was also an Assistant Basketball Coach at Kansas State University under the late Jack Hartman.
His tenacity for hard work, a strong man-to-man defense, dedication and winning brought his teams great success, but his love for his players and students and his commitment to their success in life brought him the most pleasure.
His family wants to share their appreciation to the dedicated staff of the Greenhouse Cottages of Wentworth Place of Magnolia, Arkansas. Their care for him over the last seventeen months has been phenomenal and he loved you very much.
A graveside service for Jimmy William Allen will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, October 1, 2022 at Young Family Cemetery, 100 Phillips County Rd 101 in Poplar Grove, Arkansas. Brother Kenny Lee will officiate.
Services are directed by Roller-Citizens Funeral Home, West Helena, (870)-572-2571. Relatives and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/westhelena
In lieu of flowers, an endowment account has been set up at the Southern Arkansas University Foundation in Jimmy Allen's name to support financially needy students who have evidenced self-discipline and a strong work ethic with a commitment to improve their lives.
Gifts to the fund can be made online at www.SAUFoundation.org/make-a-gift, by mail to the SAU Foundation at 100 East University, MSC 9174, Magnolia, AR 71753 or by phone at 870-235-4078.
Honorary pallbearers are members of the 1974,1976, 1977 and 1978 McNeil Boys Basketball teams, Former Superintendent and Coach Carl Barger, Coach Scott Kelton, Coach Ricky Smith, Coach Chris Kiser, Coach Spencer Kiser and Patrick Frazier.
Sign Guestbook
36 Condolence(s)
Mary Joseph
Thursday, October 20, 2022
Remembering your legacy of the impact he made on my children’s lives when he was at school in Stamps. Prayers for his family and loved ones.
Brenda Cuellar (Adams)
Sunday, October 9, 2022
Donna and family, I’m and so sorry to hear of the passing of coach Allen. Praying for strength and comfort for you and all you family.
Pamela Burroughs
Saturday, October 8, 2022
I knew Mr. Allen as my mentor, coach of basketball, and track at Bismarck in the early 70s. I contacted Mr. Allen in 2017 and he remembered me, after all those years. He was coming to Houston with his wife about a month later. He and I discussed making dinner plans and I looked forward to meeting Donna. Unfortunately, Hurricane Harvey had other plans and I had to evacuate. I had so much to say, and thank you was just one. I was saddened by the missed opportunity, to express my gratitude for his guidance and encouragement to be the best I could be. I am so very sorry for your loss, Donna. Mr. Allen touched the lives of many young people, Precious memories.
Bob Anthony
Sunday, October 2, 2022
Donna, Jimmy made a significant impact in my life. Although he was only 8 years older than me I always looked up to him. As a young man growing up he helped me in many ways. He was placed on earth to help young men and women. Coaching was the vehicle for him to do that. We are all better for knowing him. May God be with you during this time.
Bonnie Daniels
Friday, September 30, 2022
My sincerest sympathy to the Allen family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless each of you.
Amanda Clayton-Henderson
Thursday, September 29, 2022
My condolences and prayers are with you, He was a great man and will be missed by many!! Always an Eagle RIL Coach Allen â¤
Donna Brewer
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Mrs. Allen and family, so very sorry to hear of your husband’s passing. My sons were students at Stamps High School during his time there. He was a wonderful mentor to both Dustin and Daulton and my husband Doyle, sons, and I thought the world of him! In reading his obituary, he left behind a great legacy and will be greatly missed by many. Prayers that God will give you all comfort and peace beyond understanding as only He can!
Carl Barger
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Jimmy Allen was not only my friend but was a friend to many. The first time I met Jimmy Allen was at the State Division "A" tournament at Central Baptist College in Conway, Arkansas. He was coaching the Bismark senior girls in the state semi-final game. I was coaching my senior girls from McNeil, Arkansas in the semi-finals of the Division "A" state tournament. Unfortunately, both Jimmy and my senior girls lost our games in the semi-finals. But another good thing came out of Central Baptist College for Jimmy Allen and Carl J. Barger. We became life-long friends!
Being impressed by Jimmy's coaching, I offered him an opportunity to come to McNeil Public School System in Columbia County to coach our Boys basketball program. Jimmy accepted my offer and history was made for the McNeil basketball program.
Jimmy won back-to-back state championships for McNeil in Senior Boys.
Durning my career as a superintendent I moved into superintendent positions at Emerson, Nashville, Bentonville, and Warren.
It was at Warren that my and Jimmy's friendship bloomed again. I offered Jimmy the senior girls and Jr. girls coaching job at Warren, and he accepted.
Through his dedication, he again built us a strong and competitive program in girls' basketball. He and his wife Donna were very popular in Warren. Donna ended up driving back and forward to Southern Arkansas University while Jimmy continued the super job of coaching.
While at Warren Lena and I enjoyed our friendship with Jimmy and Donna. Our friendships had again blossomed! A friendship which has lasted for several years.
Not only will Jimmy leave behind his legacy of being an outstanding basketball coach, but he will leave behind his contributions as a superintendent as well.
He laid the foundation for success in several state school systems in Arkansas.
I will miss my good friend Jimmy Allen and will be praying for Donna and the family. Donna God's blessings to you and your wonderful family. Your friend always, Carl J. Barger,
Sonya ingram
Thursday, September 29, 2022
May All Your Good works, here on Earth…… Meet you at Heavens Gates!
You will be Missed!!!
Love Youâ¤ï¸!
Sonya & Teodis Ingram
Michael Clayton
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Coach Allen was a great man. I learned a lot from him. I had a opportunity to visit him at the GREENHOUSE Cottage for about a year. He will truly be missed. Rest in peace Coach Allen!!!
Bama Williams
Thursday, September 29, 2022
To the Allen Family,
You're in my thoughts and prayers and I pray God will bless and give
each of you strength to get through your sorrow. Mr. Allen will truly
be missed by all who knew and loved him.
God bless you all!!!
Bama Williams
Ida Green
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Coach Allen was the best coach McNeil ever had
C/80
Richie Butler
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Condolences to Ashley Vickers and Family
Velma Irby
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Condolences and prayers for your family
Stacy Lowe-Atkins
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Word can not express the impact that Mr. Allen was during my senior year at Stamps High School. He was a great principal and a great man. I want to thank Mr and Mrs Allen for the kindness they shown to me and my family. Continued prayers for Mrs. Allen and the family.
With Love,
The Lowe Family
Shumeecio Lark
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Coach Allen, you inspired me to be better each day I thank you for all you have taught me, all you have showed me! In remembrance of you today I will get me a Route 44 Cherry Vanilla Coke! Thank you Coach for everything
Brenda Murray
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Donna: I was so sorry to learn of the passing of your husband. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Brenda Murray
Dwain Griffin
Thursday, September 29, 2022
People knew U for different reasons but for McNeil and Eagle family your memories and Legacy will be tough love because you wanted the best out of and for everyone
Danny and Roxie
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Donna and family, so sorry for your loss. We are thinking of you and sending hugs and prayers your way. Remember if there is anything you need, we are right down the road.
Cledis Stuart
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Coach Allen inspired many and leaves a great legacy and example of what it means to be human. May God continue to bless his wife and family.
Alice Wingfield
Thursday, September 29, 2022
Praying for the family. Thank you for trusting us at Wentworth to care for Mr. Allen. He will never be forgotten and forever in our hearts 🥰
Darrin La Grone
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
There will NEVER be an inspirational Coach, Father, and Husband as Mr. Allen. He played a pivotal role to me and other student athletes in our quest to become responsible adults. Thank you Donna for sharing him with us.
Nixon Mixon
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
To a great man coach and friend you will be missed
Leslie Cross-Deas
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
May God’s grace reign over the Allen Family and console you through your cherished memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Leslie Cross-Deas
Zola Wilson Willis
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Always loved visiting with Jimmy he was always interesting to talk with. Prayers for the family
LouAnn Williamson
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
So sorry to hear about Jimmy. I worked under him at Stamps High School, as his School Nurse, for years and had much respect and admiration for him. He was a wonderful person and boss!! A pleasure knowing him!
Bradley Stout
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Mr. Jimmy will always be missed!
Andy & Rayna Bogue
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Donna,
We are praying for you and your family, and will continue praying for the weeks and months ahead. We both have fond memories of Jimmy coaching when we were in high school. We love you and hope to see you in December.
Andy & Rayna
Trey Berry
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
What beautifully written story of a life so well-lived in the service and devotion to others. It is obvious - his influence on thousands of lives.
Jimmy Allen, you changed this world, one person, one player at a time.
Thank you!
Joan Hux
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Love and prayers to Donna and the family.
Brenda Strickland
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. Get your rest Mr. Allen. We love you but God loves you more. You will be truly missed at the Greenhouse Cottages of Wentworth Place. Sending my Condolences to Mrs. Allen and the family. C🕊â¤ï¸
Sonya Shelton
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Dr. Allen,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers lifted for you and your family during this most difficult time.
Sincerely,
Sonya Shelton
Lee Ann Strunk and Family
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Praying for peace for y’all during this difficult time.
Danny Lloyd
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family. Rest in Peace Jimmy.
Arvia Askew
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Days and days of pain are gone. He’s in a beautiful world. He was blessed to have loving, devoted wife, and dozens of coaches who are praising his life and career. May peace be with the family in days ahead.
Jackie Sanders
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Dear Donna and family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband, father and grandfather.