James Curtis Allen

James Curtis Allen, age 86, passed away at home surrounded by his family in Columbia, Tennessee on September 17, 2021.

James was born to the late CM and Grace Allen of Columbia, Tennessee in Gibson Co., Tennessee on August 9, 1935.

James graduated high school in Greenwood, Mississippi, with the class of 1953. He attended Freed Hardman College where he met Anita McClure. They were married on March 24, 1957. He was a Church of Christ Minister for 31 years. He served churches in Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, and New Mexico. Afterward, he and Anita owned and operated Christian Supply Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico for 13 years. He was a landlord for several years of properties in Grants, New Mexico. When James retired, he settled in Columbia, Tennessee with his wife, Anita.

When James was younger, he enjoyed sports. He played baseball, basketball, golf, and tennis. In college basketball, he was voted the most valuable player. Later, he played semi-pro baseball for two years. James enjoyed the outdoors, particularly the mountains of New Mexico. He loved the scenic views and sunsets. He always said, “New Mexico was good to me.”

James is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Anita; children: Sharon Cash (Barry) and Stanley Allen; grandchildren: Sarah Crowell (Adam), Susan White (Chevy), Jennifer Gutsch, and Ben Gutsch; great-grandchildren: Megan Allen, Addison White, Brilee White, Jack Crowell, and Ryan Crowell; siblings: Dorothy Fields, Harold Allen, and Linda McDaniel.

The great-grandchildren will serve as honorary pallbearers.

A service for James will be held on Monday, September 20, 2021, at 11:00 AM at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia with Jerry Berry officiating. The family will receive friends from 9:00 AM till the start of the service. Burial will follow at Polk Memorial Gardens.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family at williamsfh.com