James R. Allen, 86, of Bristol, passed away peacefully on Friday afternoon, June 9, 2023, in the comfort of his home surrounded by love and family. James was born on July 21, 1936, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to the late Jack and Ruth (Salisbury) Allen. He married his true love Georgia Jean Holt in a ceremony on December 21, 1963. James's wife of 59 years, Georgia Jean Allen, died just two days after James on June 11. They are together forever. Surviving is their son, Neal (Peggy) Allen; three loving grandchildren, Michelle Kibbe, Tyler Allen, Sierra Allen; five great grandchildren, Madison Kibbe, Mia Kibbe, Carter Neely, Gavin Allen, and Phoebe Neely; his brother, Steven Allen, and sister, Cathy Mills, survive as well. He was preceded in death by two infant daughters, Roxanne and Tammy Allen.

James proudly served in the United States Army. He was the former co-owner and operator with his wife Georgia Jean of J & H Restaurant on Bristol Street from 1964 until 1984. They then opened the River Inn in Bristol and operated it for many years. They then started the Bristol Street Café of Elkhart, which is family run by their son Neal Allen and the Allen family to this day.

James enjoyed playing golf and fishing in his spare time. He was a member and formerly held most of the offices (president, vice-president, secretary) at the Elkhart Moose Lodge #599. James was a true gentleman and will be greatly missed.

No local services are scheduled. Graveside services will be held under the direction of Thompson Funeral Home, 220 Viva Dr., Trumann, AR. 72472 on Friday, June 16, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at the Nettleton Cemetery in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Georgia's brother William C. Holt will officiate. Local arrangements are under the care of Billings Funeral Home, where condolences may be sent to the family at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.