James Lee Allen

Obituary For James Lee Allen

James Allen was born on September 7, 1940, in Moscow, TN, as an only child to the parents of Joseph & Mattie Allen (who preceded him in death), he graduated from the Fayette Ware High School class of 1960. James confessed his hope in Christ at an early age at Sims Chapel MB Church, Michigan City, MS, under the late Rev. Adam Gholston. He later moved his membership under the late Rev. J.L. Payne, Greater Mt Moriah Baptist Church, Memphis, TN. In 2005, he joined the Living By The Word Christian Center Church, Olive Branch, MS, where he served as a Deacon under the leadership of Rev. Bruce Branch.

James was united in holy matrimony to Lola Hambrick-Allen (who preceded him in death). Also, preceding Mr. Allen in death were his oldest son, Charles LaVerge Allen, and two daughters, Gwendolyn Allen and Zeporia Allen-Wilson. His legacy will continue, and his memories cherished by his five sons: Michael Allen, Eric Wayne Allen, Rodney Allen, Frederick Butler, Yewell Butler (RuGiana); and two daughters, Juana Joyce Butler and Danetta Marcia Branch (Bruce). He leaves two brothers-in-law, McKinley "Ben" Hambrick and Don DeWayne Hambrick, and one sister-in-law, Ida M. Hambrick. He was blessed to be honored with 13 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces and nephews. His extended family includes two daughters, Gwendolyn Long and Malinda (Tony) Jordan.

James was an entrepreneur, an Electrician, and a Maintenance engineer with several successful careers. He worked for many years at Memphis Furniture Factory and Owens Corning, where he retired in 2005. James loved to sing and travel with several gospel quartet groups around the Mississippi and Tennessee areas. The Southern Bells was his last Quartet group affiliation, where he sang as a tenor vocalist.

James will be remembered as the patriarch of his family as well as a great neighbor in his community. He was always willing to stop and help others in need. From repairing a car, home appliances, heating, and air conditioning for businesses, or even churches, he was always willing to help.

BUCKEYE, as he was affectionately known, his journey on this earth was one marked by his generosity, strength, love, compassion, and unwavering faith in God. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by this great man. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived, and for the profound impact it had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, July 5, 2025 1:00pm at RS Lewis & Sons Funeral Home 2944 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38111.

Internment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery 5668 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119