Jack Allen
Roy Jackson “Jack” Allen, age 89, of Kenton passed away from this life on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026.
Jack was born March 31, 1936, in Obion. He was the son of the late Eunice Leon Allen and Ruby Phillips Allen. He was a member of Union Grove United Methodist Church and a United States Army Veteran.
Left to cherish his memory are Linda Jane Finch Allen, his loving wife of 64 years; daughter, Jackie Lynn Allen Freeman (Kerry); son, Robert Michael Allen (Lori); three grandsons, Zach Freeman (Kellie), Mike Freeman (Brandi) and Mitch Allen; one granddaughter, Julie Allen Chumley (Tate); three great-grandsons, Landon, Lucas and Colt Freeman; sister, Betty Sue Turtle; and brother, Thomas “Butch” Allen. Jack was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Jane Sutton; and four brothers, Billy, Robert, Ray and Frank Allen.
Jack loved his church and was very dedicated through the years. He served as Sunday School Superintendent, a teacher and chairman of the church council.
After graduating from Mason Hall High School in 1954, Jack enlisted in the Army and was stationed in France. Upon returning home, he attended UT Martin for a while, helped his dad farm and worked as a carpenter.
Jack married Jane on June 25, 1961. Their first home was also on the first farm that Jack had bought. The Obion County Junior Chamber of Commerce recognized his passion and love for farming when he was awarded Young Farmer of the Year in 1962.
In 1964, Jack and Jane briefly lived in Memphis where he was employed by Grace Chemical before returning home and building their current home in 1966.
In 1967, Jack became a DX distributor in Kenton, selling gas, diesel and oil. He delivered to stations and farmers in the surrounding area. In 1977, he became a jobber for Sunoco as Allen Oil Company; and after 14 years, sold the business and returned to farming full-time and had a hog operation.
In retirement, Jack and Jane enjoyed traveling. From cross-country adventures on the Trike motorcycle and in the motorhome, to trips in the little yellow convertible, and finally spending their winter home days in Mission, Texas. Jack and Jane have made many friends and blessed with cherished friendships.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Union Grove Cemetery Fund in care of Kay Cooper, 4349 South Union Grove Road, Kenton, TN 38233.
Visitation with family and friends was held Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, from 1 p.m. until service time at 3 p.m. at Union Grove United Methodist Church. Burial followed at Union Grove Cemetery.
Karnes & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Roy Jackson “Jack” Allen.
The Messenger