James Edward Allen "Jamie"

On Thursday, July 20, 2023, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, James E. Allen, age 73, made his transition with his loving wife, Minelva by his side.

Jamie, as he was called by most, was born to Lillie M. Allen-Moten on June 28, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan. He was raised by his stepfather, Richard (Dickie) Moten, and lived his entire life in Saginaw. Jamie was the fourth born of five children and was lovingly called Candy by his mother because of his ferocious appetite for anything sweet. He attended Potter and Longstreet schools and then Ricker Jr. High, graduating as a proud Knight from Buena Vista, C/O ‘68.

In 1970, Jamie and the love of his life, Minelva McAdams, were married. They became parents to sons, Jamele (Tanisha), Fontaine, Amondo (Michelle), and Jamie (LaToya). Jamie was employed by General Motors for several years but found his true occupational calling as a painter for Saginaw County. Jamie developed quite a reputation for his excellent painting and decorating skills. He would paint interiors for family members, friends, and coworkers and always added a unique moniker to be remembered for his artistry.Jamie loved to fish, he said being on or near the water was therapeutic. He loved to give the fish away, bartering them for carrot cake or brownies.

Jamie had a quick wit and a keen sense of humor. He loved a good verbal joust or heated discussion about anything. Jamie’s love of music was epic; back in the day, he played congas in a local band called The Dynamics. They were quite popular and with singers that could dance and band members that could sing, Jamie could be seen catching a beat by making congas from anything, tables and countertops would be transformed by his fingers. Bobbing his head and staring into space would zoom him back to those performing days.

Jamie attended Jacob’s Ladder Ministries with his wife and siblings until his health failed. Prior to his illness, he would end conversations with “in a minute,” but for the last several months, that salutation became “I love you with all my heart.” His devoted wife, Minelva, their four cherished sons and their spouses reciprocated that love. He leaves a plethora of grandchildren and a quiver of great-grands of each he doted. He is also grieved by his caring siblings, Freddie and Sonny Hodges, E. Maurice (Moe) Moten, and Bishop Dempsey Allen; four nieces, five nephews, a score of cousins, and an abundance of friends, which includes Dan Garza, Robert Jamerson, and Demetrius Webb who loved Jamie like a father, and Ms. Sally and Ms. Shirley; all mourn his passing.

Jamie was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Ronald Allen, grandson, Jakobe Washington; his father and mother-in-law, and his brother-in-law, David McAdams.