Ruth Horrell Allen, 96, died peacefully from natural causes on August 8, 2025. Ruth was born on March 8, 1929, in Jackson to Emma Graham Horrell and Augustus William Horrell. It is with profound peace we announce that she returned to her Creator in the very town of her birth and in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her family.
Ruth was a cherished woman of faith, family, and community. She led a life marked by dedication to her family and her community. She was a beacon of love and strength, predeceased by her beloved husband Harold Thomas Allen, her dear son Steven Thomas Allen, as well as her siblings Tricia Loflin, Betty Horrell Johnson, and Bill Horrell.
Her legacy continues through her surviving sisters, Mary Grace Brown and Emma Lou Horrell, and her children John Douglas Allen and life partner Karen Cole, Michael David Allen and wife Cindy Dyer Allen, Ruth Elizabeth "Missie" Allen and husband Tipton Scruggs, and Marc Christopher Allen. Ruth's joy was multiplied by her grandchildren Brittany Allen Holtman and husband John Michael; Avery Allen Carl and husband Luc; John Doug Allen and wife Sarah; Payton Allen Reed and her husband Hunter; Wyatt Allen; Dylan and Emily Scruggs. Her great grandchildren, Mac, Allie, Luke, and Millie Holtman; Maxwell and Nash Carl; Rhodes and Wyatt Reed, and Charles and Charlotte O'Shay were indeed her pride and joy.
Professionally, Ruth was a respected board member and secretary for the Delta Centrifugal Casting Corporation and co-founder of The General Store. Ruth was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, living out the values of patriotism and service.
Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life, manifesting in her actions and her boundless love for others. Ruth and Tom were charter members of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Jackson. In her leisure time, she was an enthusiastic member of The Country Club of Jackson, an amateur competitive golfer, and a seasoned participant in deep-sea fishing excursions aboard the Canary Diamond. Ruth enjoyed the rustic serenity of country life at the Smith County Farm with her husband Tom and loved playing Bridge with her friends at the Jackson Country Club. Known for her savvy investing and culinary skills, Ruth was an excellent cook who delighted in showering her grandchildren with love and affection.
As the anchor of her family, Ruth embodied the words of Proverbs 31:28-29, "Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 'Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.'" Ruth's life was a testament to these verses, as her family and friends witnessed her noble character in every aspect of her life. In her passing, Ruth Horrell Allen leaves a legacy of compassion, integrity, and unwavering love. As we reflect on her life, let us carry forward the light of her spirit, which shone so brightly and guided us all. We take solace in the knowledge that she lives on in the hearts of those who loved her, and in the everlasting peace bestowed upon her by her faith. Rest now, dear Ruth, in the eternal embrace of our Lord. Your memory will forever be a blessing to us all.
Visitation will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Jackson on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with the service at noon. Josh Cole will officiate. Interment at Parkway Cemetery in Madison will immediately follow the service.
