Arthur Jessie Allen, the rock and patriarch of his family, was a sterling example of "greatest generation" men, full of strength, determination, perseverance, and love of God and country. He knew the value of a dollar, of hard work, and, above all, of family, whom he prized above all else, demonstrating his love for them daily in word and deed. "AJ" could never love enough...give enough, of himself or his means to others. This exceptional man, so worthy of the 99 years God granted him with his loved ones, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, December 4, 2016. Born the eldest of 8 children to Irene and Frank Allen on November 22, 1917, in rural Van Zandt County, Texas, AJ worked hard from a very young age, even forfeiting a college basketball scholarship to assist his large family during the Depression. He married his high school sweetheart, Ozell Tidmore, in 1940, shortly before enlisting in the Air Force to serve in WWII in the 15th photo reconnaissance division in Italy. After serving his country, AJ's love for people coupled with his gregarious personality led him to become a barber, working in Highland Park Village, Lakewood, and finally as one of the first businessmen in the Casa Linda/White Rock area, where he worked and lived the remainder of his long, productive life. Wanting to see the area grow and prosper, AJ became a pioneering investor in the fledgling Casa Linda Bank, which ultimately became Chase Bank. He was in business in Casa Linda over 40 years and opened the A&A Barbershop. Faith was the foundation of AJ Allen's life; he never let a day go by without conversing with his Lord. Raised Presbyterian, AJ later became a long-standing, active member of Lakeside Baptist Church with his wife of 67 years, Ozell. Always interested in people, AJ enjoyed lively conversation, relaying fascinating stories, and making the day a bit brighter for those around him with a winning smile or a kind comment. He never met a stranger and was beloved by all. Preceded in death by his wife Ozell, AJ is survived by his devoted son, Dr. A. Larry Allen and wife Priscilla of Dallas; greatly-beloved grandchildren Amanda Allen and partner Caterina Miltenberger of Dallas and Mark Allen and wife Kimberly of the Woodlands; and cherished great-grandchildren Ava and Luke Allen, as well as numerous special relatives and friends. With heartfelt gratitude, the family acknowledges "Gran's" loving caregivers, Jean Garris and Comfort Aggekum. Funeral services will be held Friday, December 9th at 2:00 p.m., preceded by a visitation at 1:00 p.m. at Grove Hill Funeral Home, 3920 Samuell Blvd., Dallas. Interment with military honors will immediately follow the service at Grove Hill Memorial Park. Either floral or charitable tributes would be appreciated.
Published in Dallas Morning News on Dec. 8, 2016