James “Jimmy” Allen, born February 13, 1944, in Sylacauga, Alabama, passed from this earth on Monday, October 26, 2026, at the age of 82.

Known to many by the affectionate name “Pawpaw,” Mr. Allen lived a long working life marked by dedication and steady purpose. He retired from the Arizona Republic after ten years of service, bringing to a close a career in the newspaper industry that had begun when he was eighteen years old and spanned a total of thirty-seven years. His was a life shaped by commitment to his work and by the constancy that comes from giving many years to a career.

Outside of work, he was known for his love of antiques and his passion for collecting old things. He found enjoyment in the character and history held in treasured items from the past. He also dearly loved his dog, named Dog, whose companionship was an important part of his life.

Above all, Mr. Allen will be remembered by the family and friends who shared in his life. He is survived by his sons, William Allen (Mylene) and Travis Allen; and by his daughter, Glenda Harris (Wayne). He also leaves behind a loving circle of grandchildren: Christina Evans (Tony), Elex Harris (Aleda), Charles Harris (Katina), Brandie Eckert (Josh), Weston Allen, and Rachel Brown (Houston); twelve great-grandchildren and one on the way and five great-great grandchildren and one on the way. He is also survived by his sisters, Bessie Mae Smith (John) and Patricia Jones; brother, Walter Allen; several nieces and nephews; best friend, Charles Ray Dennis and the mother of his children, Mattie Arline Dolan.

He is preceded in death by his father, James “Jim” Allen, and his mother, Rachel Brewer Allen; brothers, Ocie Allen, Robert Allen, Johnnie Allen, and Franklin Allen; sisters, Lufaye Allen and Elizabeth Evans and by his best friend, John Dailey.

James “Pawpaw” Allen will be remembered for the life he built through hard work, for the treasures he loved to gather, and for the warmth of the family and friends who surrounded him. His memory remains in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him.

There are no services scheduled at this time.