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James Howison "Jim, Papa, Papa Jim, Uncle Jimbo" Allen
James Howison "Jim, Papa, Papa Jim, Uncle Jimbo" Allen
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James Allen Obituary
Jim was born on July 18, 1941, in Memphis, Tennessee, to James Houston Allen and Tennie Mae (Morrow) Allen. He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Sharon Allen, his children Valerie Ratheal and James R. Allen, as well as his cherished grandchildren Misty O'Beirne, Dustin Ratheal (Courtney Ratheal), Sarah Reid (James Reid), Amanda Padilla (Juan Padilla), Amber Waltson and many beloved great-grandbabies. He was also a beloved brother to Lottie Vest, Emily Codemo (Luis), and Barbara Doles (David Doles), and is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Houston Allen and Tennie Mae (Morrow) Allen, as well as his siblings Theresa (Barney) Stephens and William Morton Allen.
Jim had a remarkable career in the auto body industry, starting at the young age of 13 and eventually owning his own body shop, Allen's Auto Body, in Bell Gardens, California. James was also known for being a "Jack of all Trades." There wasn't anything that he could not do. He was known for his hard work, intelligence, and generosity, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.
A devoted member of the community, Jim was heavily involved in the Bell Gardens Lion's Den, Rio Honda Boys and Girls Club, and Yosemite Bible Camp. He was a dedicated member of the Church of Christ and found solace and community in his faith.
In his free time, Jim enjoyed fishing, tinkering, working on his tractor, indulging in sweets, and spending quality time playing games with his family and friends. He was a devoted husband to Sharon, a loving father, and an adoring grandfather who took joy in spoiling his grandchildren.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held at the Christiana Church of Christ on July 27th, 2024, at 11 am, with lunch provided afterwards. Jim will be dearly missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of kindness, hard work, and love will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Jeff Marks
June 20, 2024
The first time I met Uncle Jimbo was standing in the dining room Grandma's Kitty's , the last time I saw him was peeling shrimp at the Chinese buffet for his lovely wife. I got a hug and I'll cherish and remember it forever.
Renee
June 18, 2024
Thank you Mr. Allen for always having an open door through my youth. Many of my childhood memories have your presence in them. Your example of kindness and acceptance has brought up more than one generation of truly loving people. You have been a blessing to
this earth and to those around you. My condolences to family during this hard time of loss.
Amanda Padilla
June 18, 2024
Papa was a gem! Truly one of a kind.. His shenanigans and sense of humor will often be missed. He had a heart of gold and really was just the best version of himself always with everyone . Blessed were we who had him and now have countless cherishable memories to hold onto . Rest easy Papa
James Crumpton
June 18, 2024
Uncle Jimbo visited me in Forest Grove. We went to a picnic at another relative´s house. Uncle Jimbo was eating bbq potato chips, and my toddler son, Zac kept helping himself to Unlce Jimbo´s chips. Everyone was laughing so hard.
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