Bill Allen, of Midland, died on Monday, February 1, 2011, just 2 weeks short of his 86th birthday, at his residence. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, February 4, 2011, at the Nalley-Pickle & Welch Chapel with Rev. Greer Willis, pastor of First Baptist Church of Pecos, officiating. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, February 5, 2011, at Calvary Cemetery in Marlin, Texas with Rev. Jimmy Phillips, officiating. He was born on February 14, 1925 in Kosse Texas to Warren and Nolie Allen, and married Betty Jo Sanders on January 27, 1943, in Grosbeck, Texas. They had just celebrated their 68th anniversary. Bill worked for the Postal Service and the VA Hospital in Marlin, before moving to Pecos for the next 55 years to farm cotton and raise his family. He also worked as a agent for 43 years with State Farm Insurance. He served in the National Guard, the Texas State Guard, and the US Army. He was a member of the Lion's Club, serving as President, a member of the Rotary Club, and served as Rodeo Director for the West of the Pecos Rodeo. For a number of years, he donated a trophy saddle to the top rodeo contestant. Survivors include his wife, Betty Jo Allen; two daughters, Kim Poitevint and husband Duane of Midland, and Mary Caruth and husband Jim of San Antonio; son Billy Allen and wife Wanda of New Braunfels; and grandchildren; Hilary Caruth Hamilton and husband Brian, James William Caruth and wife Sarah Fortenberry Caruth, Garret Duane Poitevint and wife Tandi Bomer Poitevint, Preston Scott Poitevint, Lt. Col. Todd Alan Collins and wife Debra, Kelly Catherine Coronado and husband Gene, Colin Marshall Gorman. Great-grandchildren include: William Conway Hamilton, Adele Pearl Hamilton, William Barrett Caruth, Clayton Wesley Poitevint, Brandon John Moran, Ryan Mitchell Moran, Justine Adam Moran, Alexander Paul Coronado, Caleb Alan Collins and Noah Collins. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ray Allen; and sister, Mary Sauter. The family suggests memorials to be made to Hospice of Midland, PO Box 2621, Midland, Texas 79702. Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com

Published in Midland Reporter-Telegram on February 3, 2011