Jennifer Renee Allen, 45, of Taylor Springs, died on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of her family.
A celebration of life will be held nearer to her birthday. Cremation rites have been accorded, per her wishes. Assalley Funeral Home in Panama is in charge of arrangements.
Mrs. Allen was born on July 2, 1980, to Randy and Elizabeth (nee Grider) Maass, in Litchfield. She was raised in Panama and graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1999. She attended Tri County Beauty Academy in 2001, beginning a career she truly enjoyed. She worked as a hairdresser for many years and was a long-time manager at Great Clips and Fantastic Sam’s.
She married the love of her life, Clinton “Coon Dog” Allen on Sept. 8, 2001, and spent nearly 25 wonderful years married. They built a life centered around family, love and adventure. They especially enjoyed turkey hunting together, traveling to Cedar Hill River Cabins in Southern Illlinois, and even share matching tattoos as a symbol of their bond.
Mrs. Allen had a personality that filled the room. Though she stood just 5’3”, her hugs could lift one right off the ground. She loved people deeply and never met a stranger. Known for her signature tie-dye style and love of the Grateful Dead, she lived life with a free spirit and joyful heart.
She found happiness in the simple things, working in the yard, growing all types of flowers (especially sunflowers), deep cleaning her home and spending time outdoors. She enjoyed country cruising, bonfires with friends and relaxing with a Mich Ultra in hand. Music was always playing, whether it was country or rock.
Mrs. Allen was an incredible cook and took pride in feeding those she loved. She was known for her famous potato salad, “birds nest,” and a perfectly cooked turkey breast on the grill. Her motto was simple, “If you leave hungry, that’s your fault.”
She was goofy, fun-loving and always ready to make people laugh. She took care of everyone around her, putting others before her, and making sure those that she loved always felt welcome, comfortable and cared for.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Montgomery County Cancer Association, as well as the many friends and family members who have reached out with love, support and kindness during this difficult time.
Mrs. Allen is survived by her husband, Clinton Allen of Taylor Springs; mother, Elizabeth Maass of Litchfield; sons, Cole (Kelssey) Allen of Staunton and Caleb Allen of Taylor Springs; grandchildren, Hazel Allen and Brynlee Allen; brother, Dylan (Dakota) Maass of Keyesport; nieces, Braylin, Rylee and Camryn; and numerous friends and extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her father, Randy Maass; and her maternal and paternal grandparents.
Memorials made be made to the family to assist with expenses at The Allen Family, 118 E. College Ave. Greenville, IL, 62246.
Condolences may be left at www.assalleyfuneralhome.com.
