Donny Wayne Allen was born on November 24, 1949, in Tyler, Texas, to Nathaniel Raphael Allen, Sr. and Effie Mae (Price) Allen. He was raised in the Jackson/Chapel Hill School District,where he attended from elementary through high school, graduating with the Class of 1967.

Shortly after graduation, Donny moved to Los Angeles, California, where he pursued higher education at Compton City College. While in Los Angeles, he began working for the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. It was during this chapter of his life that he met the love of his life, Linda Dunn, a fellow Texan also living in California.

In 1978, Donny returned to Texas, first living in Houston and working for the telephone company. He soon moved back home to Tyler and reunited with Linda, who had moved back to Texas and resided in Tyler. They married and began building a life together. Donny went on to work for Prudential Insurance Company while furthering his education to become a respiratory therapist. After graduating, he served the community through his work at both Mother Frances Hospital and East Texas Medical Center until his retirement.

A devoted member of Miles Chapel CME Church under the leadership of Reverend James Hawkins, Donny proudly sang in the Male Choir and cherished his faith community deeply. He was a proud member of the local Men's Civitan Club, a dedicated husband, a proud father, and a beloved friend to many.

Donny had a love for life's simple joys—sports (especially football), basketball, and fishing. Westerns were ALWAYS on in the house. He had a passion for maintaining a pristine lawn, not just at his own home, but also for his parents, daughter, and son. A true tech enthusiast, he always had the latest gadget in hand, and his love for photography and videography allowed him to capture countless weddings and special events within the community.

After some gentle encouragement from his children, Donny became an enthusiastic cruise traveler, embracing the cultures and adventures each voyage brought.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Nathaniel and Effie Allen; his brother, Nathaniel Allen Jr. ("Junior"); his daughter, Valerie Kay Allen; and his son, Matthew Rafael Allen.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Linda S. Allen of Tyler, Texas; daughter, Shannon N. Madlock of College Station, Texas; daughter, Kimberly D. Allen of Tyler, Texas; son, Christopher W. Allen and his wife Christina (McDonald) Allen of Pikeville, North Carolina; beloved granddaughter, Kaydence Grace Allen of Pikeville, North Carolina; and his loyal granddog, Lexi Allen. He also leaves behind a host of extended family and lifelong friends.

Donny's legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and service will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him