James L. Allen, 71, of Warsaw, Missouri passed away Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at his home in Warsaw. James (Jim) was born November 19, 1954, in Philadelphia, PA. He was the son of John and Frona (Leslie) Allen of Winona, Missouri. Jim was a graduate of Winona High School in the class of 1972. Following high school, he attended School of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree. Majoring in Criminal Justice, Sociology, and Business Administration. On October 14, 1978, he was united in marriage for 47 years to Lori Denise Applequist, who survives of the home. They were married at Williams Memorial Chapel, Point Lookout, Missouri.

In 1981, he started his career with the Missouri State Water Patrol. He was first assigned to the Osceola area of Truman Lake, and was later assigned near Truman Dam, becoming the “dam officer.” Along with his normal patrolman duties, he enjoyed presenting boating and water safety programs to students until his retirement in 2010 after 30 years of service.

Jim found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Whether he was working with his hands on a new DIY project, shooting, capturing the world through his camera lens, or being a part of every travel adventure with his family, he embraced each moment fully. Above all, his greatest joy was spending time with his three granddaughters. In quieter moments, he loved nothing more than settling in to enjoy a good movie, leaving his family with countless cherished memories of his creative heart, steady presence, and the quiet warmth he brought to their lives.

He is survived by his wife, Lori Allen; his son, Tyler Allen and daughter-in-law, Kaylon Allen; his granddaughters, Charlotte, Avery, and Cameron of Franklinton, North Carolina; and his brother, John Allen of Etowah, North Carolina. Numerous other relatives and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Frona Allen, and his younger sister, Janet. 

Cremation was under the direction and care of the Warsaw Funeral & Cremation. A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 PM on September 12, at Cedar Grove Baptist Church, 31766 Cedar Grove Avenue, Warsaw, MO 65355. Friends and family are warmly welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers or memorial contributions, the family respectfully requests all donations be made to the Salvation Army or the Humane Society.