JoAnn Allen

JoAnn Allen February 21, 1938 – August 30, 2025 JoAnn Allen, of Huntsville, Texas, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 30, 2025. Born on February 21, 1938, in New Albany, Indiana, to Louis and Ruth Jackson, JoAnn moved to Orange, Texas as a child and graduated from Lutcher Stark High School. She was the first in her family to attend college, enrolling at Sam Houston State University. There, she served as President of Alpha Chi Omega and met the love of her life, Buddy Allen, who would become her devoted husband of 63 years. After college, JoAnn and Buddy settled in the Spring Branch area of Houston, where they raised their two daughters, Lynn and Lori. Along with her daughters, she touched many lives as she dedicated her career to teaching elementary school at Pine Shadows. She was a committed leader in Bible Study Fellowship and an active member of Spring Branch Community Church, nurturing both her faith and her community. Upon retirement, JoAnn and Buddy moved to Elkins Lake in Huntsville, where she embraced life fully-golfing, playing games with friends, traveling, and cherishing time with family. They became long-time members of Elkins Lake Baptist Church. JoAnn was known for her joy, generosity, and vibrant creativity. She pursued Christ with unwavering dedication, and her faith was reflected in every aspect of her life-most notably in the love and care she gave Buddy in his final years. She was a trusted friend, an inspiring role model, and the life of every gathering, her laughter bright and unforgettable. JoAnn is preceded in death by her husband, Buddy; her parents, Louis and Ruth Jackson; and her brother, Donny Jackson. She is survived by her daughters, Lynn Owen and husband Bill, and Lori Kotzur and husband Darrel; grandchildren, Brent Owen and wife Sarah, Ashley Rush and husband Colt, Allison Schmidt and husband Tyler, Travis Kotzur and wife Katie, Natalie Kotzur, and Niki Kotzur; and great-grandchildren, Adeline, Tripp, Heidi, and Jonah. JoAnn's legacy of faith, love, and laughter will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know her. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Elkins Lake Baptist Church. Visitation will be held at 10am and services begin at 11am on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Elkins Lake Baptist Church. A private family burial will follow. Memorial condolences may be made to the family at www.shmfh.com.