Jimmy Allen '87'

Jimmy Dee Allen

January 29, 1939 – August 31, 2026

Jimmy Dee Allen, 87, of Jefferson, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on August 31, 2026. Born January 29, 1939, in Jefferson, Jimmy lived a life defined by hard work, faith, family, service, and devotion to those he loved.

Perhaps the greatest part of Jimmy’s life was the one he built with his wife, Dixie B. Allen. Their love story began on July 4, 1954, with a flat tire and a young man who stopped to lend a hand, never knowing that simple act of kindness would change both their lives. They married in 1958, beginning 68 years as husband and wife and 72 years together.

Through raising their children, Jimmy’s years on the road, watching their family grow through generations, and eventually growing old together, Jimmy and Dixie remained side by side. Together they raised Wendell Lee Allen and Wendy Kay Allen, building a family that became one of Jimmy’s greatest sources of pride.

Jimmy proudly served his country in the United States Army, spending part of his military service in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He later built a long career in trucking as an owner-operator. Known over the CB radio as “Sidewinder,” Jimmy spent countless miles behind the wheel, including hauling oversized loads. Trucking became more than his occupation—it was an enduring part of who he was and the source of countless stories and friendships throughout his life.

Jimmy was a longtime member of Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Jefferson, where his Christian faith remained important throughout his life.

He began his Masonic journey with Jefferson Lodge No. 38, in 1968 and was raised to the degree of Master Mason. His commitment to Masonry spanned more than half a century, and in 2019 he was recognized by the Grand Lodge of Texas for more than 50 years as a 32nd Degree Mason and a Shriner. He especially loved driving his mini Mustang in parades, where seeing children smile and wave brought him tremendous joy.

Away from the highway, Jimmy loved hunting and especially fishing the waters of Caddo Lake. Whether behind the wheel of a truck, sitting on the water, driving in a parade, or surrounded by family, Jimmy found happiness in the people and places he loved.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Dixie B. Allen; his children, Wendell Lee Allen and Wendy Kay Allen; his grandchildren, Cody Lane Duncan and his wife, Haley Michelle Duncan, and Kelsey Lynn Roge'; his great-grandchildren, Adalyn Jane, Kyndall Jade, Lily Rae, Jazmine Lane, Zoey Michelle, and Miley Jean Duncan; and his sister, Mary Jane Brooking.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Broad Cecil Allen and Iona Marie Allen; his brothers, Joe Allen and Bob Allen; and his sister, Janelle Singleton.

Jimmy lived a life measured not simply in years, but in miles traveled, family raised, friendships made, promises kept, and lives touched. To some he was Jimmy; to others, a soldier, brother Mason, Shriner, truck driver, or “Sidewinder” on the CB. To his family, he was a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, provider, teacher, and a steady presence through generations.

After 72 years beside Dixie, Jimmy was able to spend his final days exactly where he wanted to be—at home in Jefferson. His grandson, Cody, and granddaughter-in-law, Haley, had the privilege of helping care for him, allowing him to remain at home with Dixie and those he loved nearby.

On the morning of August 31, 2026, Jimmy peacefully passed in his sleep, leaving behind a family who will continue carrying his lessons, remembering his stories, and speaking his name.

In accordance with Jimmy’s wishes, no visitation or funeral services will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Shriners Children’s Hospital in his memory.