Nell Jenkins Allen

Nell Jenkins Allen, age 86, entered the presence of her Lord and Savior on Friday, July 17, 2026, following an extended illness. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at First Free Will Baptist Church. Rev. David Postlewaite will officiate and interment will follow in Crown Hill Cemetery.

Nell's life was a beautiful testimony of faith, devotion, hard work, and love for family. At just sixteen years old, she married the love of her life, Harold Allen, after being introduced to him by her dear friend, Rebecca "Becky" Allen, who also happened to be Harold's sister. Family members often joked that Nell "ran off to get married so she wouldn't have to keep picking cotton." What began as a youthful romance became a lifelong love story, and the couple shared nearly 57 wonderful years of marriage before Harold's passing.

Throughout much of her working life, Nell built a respected career in retail, spending 25 years at Gayfers. Many who worked alongside her affectionately remembered her as "the mean red-headed woman." While the nickname always brought smiles, it was rooted in the high standards she expected—not only of herself but of everyone around her. She believed in professionalism, excellence, and presenting oneself with dignity.

One former employee fondly recalled purchasing what she thought was the perfect chambray dress adorned with beautiful pearls. Confident it met the dress code, she wore it to work only to be called into Nell's office. Nell gently but firmly explained that the dress did not meet company standards. The employee later laughed as she remembered saying, "I understand—but wasn't it pretty?" Nell simply smiled and replied, "Yes, it is." That story perfectly captured her character: firm in her convictions, fair in her judgment, and always gracious.

Nell practiced what she expected of others. She was impeccably dressed for every occasion, carrying herself with elegance and dignity. She embodied the qualities of a true Southern lady.

Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She adored her three grandchildren and delighted in making every holiday, birthday, and special event memorable. She lovingly coordinated outfits for family occasions, making sure everyone looked their very best. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and celebration, where she delighted in preparing meals and making certain each person's favorite dish was on the table. Her love was often expressed through thoughtful details, generous hospitality, and countless acts of service.

Nell was especially fond of her son-in-love, Jon Segroves. She often spoke proudly of him and was quick to tell others how much she loved and appreciated him. With a smile, she would say that Jon "hung the moon," a simple expression that reflected the deep affection and admiration she had for him. He held a special place in her heart, and she treasured the love and care he showed to her family.

Above all else, Nell loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her faith was the foundation of her life. She faithfully served in several ministries at First Free Will Baptist Church, where she quietly and consistently demonstrated Christ's love through her service to others. Her life reflected the words of Proverbs 31:25:

"Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come."

Nell will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her strong convictions, her impeccable style, her servant's heart, and the deep love she shared with her family and friends. Though she will be greatly missed, those who knew her find comfort in knowing she is now healed, whole, and rejoicing in the presence of her Savior.

Her legacy of faith, love, and strength will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clark Jenkins and Emma Lee Granger Jenkins and her husband, James Harold Allen.

Survivors include her daughter, Debra Allen Segroves and her husband, Jon Segroves, Albany, GA and a sister, Brenda Driver, Blakely, GA., grandchildren, Adam Kerry Segroves, Samuel Allen Segroves and Caitlin Adair Segroves Daglis  and her husband Nick. 

Those desiring may make memorials in memory of Nell Jenkins Allen to First Free Will Baptist Church, 420 N. Westover Blvd . Albany, GA, 31707.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral hour at First Free Will Baptist Church.. .

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