Clarence Allen

Clarence “Pete” Allen, 87, of Linden, Texas, passed away at his home on March 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on May 8, 1938, in Bossier City, Louisiana, to Clarence “Bud” Allen, Sr. and Lillie Belle Elrod Allen, Pete was a devoted Christian and a true family man. His faith guided him daily in the way he treated others, offering kindness, help when needed, and a warm welcome to everyone he met. He had a special tenderness for children and the elderly, though he never quite saw himself as one of the latter. Above all, his greatest joy was his family. He was deeply proud of each of them and cherished every moment spent together, whether at the ball field, outdoors, or gathered at home.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Pete loved hunting and fishing. He began coaching and umpiring at the age of 19 and continued for decades, touching the lives of countless young people in Cass County. In his younger years he played minor league baseball as a catcher and later became an All-Star men’s slow-pitch softball pitcher, continuing to play well into his sixties. He remained an enthusiastic supporter of the Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys, a proud volunteer with Special Olympics, and a generous giver of coaching advice to his granddaughter in his later years. Pete retired from the Texas Department of Transportation after 36 years of dedicated service.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Patsy Allen, and his brother Jack Allen. Pete is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Judy Allen; his children, JoLynn Woods (Ralph), Ricky Allen (Kim), and Jamee Quaid; grandchildren Nicholas Woods (Stacy), Michael Woods, Elizabeth Ritchey (Trent), James “J.L.” Allen, and his special sidekick Jacee Quaid; seven great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; his brother Franklin Allen (Deana); sister-in-law Carolyn Allen; brothers-in-law Jimmy Roberts (Colette), Dennis Roberts (Hattie), and Darrell Roberts (Pam); and his faithful companions Annie and Lucee. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will always remember his caring heart and the lasting impression he made on everyone who knew him.