Billie Jo Allen

Billie Jo (Standefer) Allen

Billie Jo (Standefer) Allen joined her family in heaven March 11, 2025, at 102 and 3 days. She passed in her sleep at home. I was blessed to be by her side.

Mom was born in Wilson, TX to Clayton and Faye Standefer. She had 3 brothers and 4 sisters, all of whom proceeded her in death. Mom grew up around Bledsoe, Morton and Tatum. She graduated from Tatum High School with the nickname of Chocolate. Her best friend, Louis Floyd, was called Flaxy. These names were given by their principal related to their complexions. Those two had many laughs and adventures together. Mom enjoyed many fine times and hard work with her siblings. They didn’t always have what they wanted, but certainly what they needed.

After high school, mom lived with her grandmother in Plainview, TX. There she completed business college and passed the Civil Service test. At age 19 she boarded the Greyhound bus and left for Washington, D.C. She worked for Brigadier General, Q.M.C.H.D. Munnikhuysen until 1942.

She enjoyed all D.C. had to offer. But a favorite, was watching western movies at the Saturday Matinees. She crushed on John Wayne.

She found herself missing cowboys and the lifestyle of the west. Mom returned home for about a year, then enlisted in the Marines. My mom was so courageous! She amazed me. Her place of entry was Elida, NM on June 1944. Mom was stationed at MCAS EL TORO, Santa Ana, California until April 1946. She served as a mechanic, aircraft 747A and clerk-typist 405. Mom received aviation machinist mate training at ATTC, Norman, OK. Mom was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal. Mom had many wonderful memories while a Marine. Including walking backwards towards officers so she and her besties wouldn’t have to salute. Three or four of these ladies took off hitch hiking, through the west, visiting their families. They felt safe since they were in uniform.

Upon discharge, Mom returned home once again hoping to find her cowboy. She found him, working on a ranch, for her aunt and uncle, Peter and Hazel Savage. They married three months later. Truman (Stub) Allen and Mom had many good times. He rodeoed, riding saddle broncs and worked on several ranches around Roswell, with her by his side. They began their family with Clayton Allen (Wendy) of Coleville, WA. Jay Allen, Elaine Allen of Lincoln and Darla Jo (Allen) Perry (Howard) of Roswell.

Mom was Dad’s best “hand”. She helped him brand, pen cattle, and kept us fed. She could sit a horse better than most. Mom could shoot a rifle and kept the coyotes out of the hen house. Also, killed her share of snakes. Mom cooked, sewed, washed clothes in a tub with a wringer, and hung clothes on the line. Her yeast rolls and cobblers are some of my great memories.

She was a great mother. Mom never yelled, cussed, or said a bad word about anyone. Including Dad! She made life easy. Mom taught me the two step and waltz in the kitchen. Also taught me cooking, cleaning, painting fences, laundry, pulling weeds, cards, dominoes and embroidery. She taught me how to march with Marine drills. Mom was blessed with 14 grandkids. They love their Nana. They would send cards, flowers, gifts, pictures and always their love. As distance became greater, their love never waned. She had 24 great-grandkids and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Also, many nieces and nephews who love her. Her last sister-in-law, Ethel Standefer, loves her and always tried to see her as often as she could.

Mom had the honor of being the Grand Marshal of the Veterans Day Parade in Roswell at 100 years old. She was so excited and grateful.

Mom’s grandson, Clayton Royce Martin, joined the Marines due to her influence.

From Clayton:

“Here’s health to you and to our Corps, which we are proud to serve.

In many a strife we’ve fought for life and never lost our nerve;

If the Army and the Navy ever look on Heavens scenes;

They will find the streets are guarded by the United States Marines.”

Daughter, Sister, Sister-in-law, Aunt, Marine(WWII), Wife, Mother, Mother-in-law, Nana, Hero!

Mom’s granddaughter, Rebecca:

“A woman who never missed her Stories (soap operas), or went without red lipstick. She preferred artificial flowers over real. Nana danced, laughed, played 84 & 42 and cards with family and friends as long as she was able. She made us lil weenies and all the mac & cheese we wanted. Nana would use a fly swatter when we needed it and discourage foul or disrespectful language. She was a woman. She was/is my Nana.”

Mom’s granddaughter, McKenzie:

“Not gone, just gone ahead. Nana was a woman of quiet strength. She showed up, teaching us the importance of family, perseverance and loyalty. Never asking for anything in return. That was my Nana.”

Mom’s granddaughter, Tessa:

“Nana told me “make sure you laugh at least once a day” …she was wise, caring , brave, loving, funny and strong.”

Mom’s grandson, Trick:

“What I could say would take up the newspaper. But I’m Nana’s favorite and that should be good, (others disagree with this statement).”

Mom’s granddaughter, Krista:

“I can’t put into words what Nana meant to me.”

Mom’s grandson, Ryan:

“My daughters loved her a lot. Libby was excited to visit her most Sunday nights and Mondays. She loved playing her keyboard for her. I’ll add, Ryan and Shawna, were very good to Mom!”

Mom’s daughter, Darla Jo:

“A favorite memory, Mom was watching McKenzie and Trick. They were little. I came home and those two looked rather unkept. Mom was sitting in the recliner reading the racing form. Loved it!” Mom always said, “I just want you guys to be happy.”

Mom was baptized in a lake while in CA. She accepted Jesus as her Savior. She’s in heaven. She read bible stories when I was little. She took me and my sister to church. She took my brothers, when young, to church and taught Sunday School at Tabernacle Baptist Church. 

Mom lost her son, Jay in 1989 and her grandson, Kyle Allen in 2025, and her true love, Truman Allen (Stub) in 2020.

I want to thank and recommend Comfort Keepers. Mom’s regular staff, Jen, Erica and Cynthia were so very kind, skillful and attentive, to her needs. All the staff that came were kind and capable. Laurie is exceptional in her job, she always met Mom’s and my needs.

Gentiva Hospice sent wonderful people. I enjoyed Ruberta, RN. Her visits were supportive to me, and she gave Mom excellent care. Jacob, PA was a delight. Pastor Tim would brighten her day with his guitar and songs. She picked on him and he loved it.

The Joy Center delivered Meals on Wheels. Gracie was always asking about her. Even gave her birthday cards. Thank you, Alex, for putting up with our dog Maggie. I’ll miss them all!

Special thanks to my church family, Roswell Baptist. Your kind words and prayers were appreciated. Thank you, Pastor David and Joellen Walden.

Arrangements are made under the care of Ballard Funeral Home. A Graveside service will be held Saturday the 22nd at 11:00AM in Elida. Pastor Tim Arlet will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, your donation to the Joy Center would be appreciated. These people provide an extraordinary service for our community.

Pallbearers: Royce Martin, Joel Martin, Truman (Trick) Armstrong, Krista Peralta, Tess Quintana, McKenzie St. Denis.

Honorary Pallbearers: Brent Allen, Amanda Allen, Rebecca Armstrong, Trey Allen, and all nieces and nephews.

"Courage is being afraid and saddling up anyway"