Herbert Allen Obituary

Herbert Jesse "H. J." Allen, III

January 13, 2026

SURGOINSVILLE - Herbert Jesse "H.J." Allen, III of Surgoinsville. From the roar of the engines to the quiet pride of a grandfather, H.J. Allen, 72, lived a life full of passion and adventure. After a courageous battle with cancer, H.J. passed away on January 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of speed, friendships, and unconditional love.

Drag racing wasn't just a hobby for H.J., it was a lifelong calling. In his youth, he was a driver with Allen & Sons Racing, where he made history as part of a father-and-sons racing team that set world records. His love for the sport never faded. In his later years, he found great joy spending time in the Allen machine shop, taking care of Allen Carwash, and acting as a mentor and supporter for his nephew during his own racing adventures. He was a graduate of Surgoinsville High School and dedicated 25 years to the Holliston Mills, Church Hill, TN. He was also a proud Master Mason and a member of Overton Lodge No. 5 F. & A.M., where he upheld the values of the brotherhood in his life. While he loved the thrill of the race, H.J.'s heart belonged to his family. He was a loving husband of 31 years to Ruby and a proud father to his daughter, Jacki and her brother Dustin Gorman. As "Pappy," he was a constant fixture at Dobyns-Bennett High School, serving as his granddaughter's biggest cheerleader at every volleyball game. He was equally moved by the arts, never missing a chance to hear his grandson sing in the choir and a cappella groups. To H.J., his grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he never missed an opportunity to brag about their talents and successes to anyone who would listen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herb (Jr.) and Phyllis Allen, grandparents G.D. and Mayme Alvis & Herbert (Sr.) & Kathleen Allen; and an infant sister, Una.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Ruby Thomas Allen; his daughter, Jacki Wolfe (Jason); his brother, Mike Allen, Sr. (Patsy); and his cherished grandchildren, Sithney and Aidan Wolfe. He also leaves behind his nephew, Michael Allen, Jr. (Melissa, Mason, & Madison), and a large circle of cousins and dear friends who will miss his stories and his strength.

Visitation hours will be 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M., Friday, January 16, 2026 at Christian-Sells Funeral Home, Rogersville.

Funeral service will be conducted 3:00 P.M., Friday, January 16, 2026 in the funeral home chapel. Burial will follow in Hawkins County Memorial Gardens.

Online condolences may be made at www.christiansells.com

Christian-Sells Funeral Home, Rogersville is honored to serve the Allen family.