Janie Allen

Betty Jane Allen, affectionately known as Janie, age 92, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 19, 2026.

Born on November 7, 1933, in Havana, Kansas, she was the daughter of Mabel (Sell) Click and William Edgar Click, who were later divorced. She was preceded in death by both of her parents and her beloved husband of 62 years, Reverend Donald F. Allen.

Janie was a proud graduate of Ottawa University (1955) and Central Seminary in Kansas City, Kansas, reflecting her lifelong love of learning and commitment to faith-based leadership. Known for her thoughtfulness, Janie often sent handwritten greeting cards to churches, missionaries, friends, and family—a gesture that became a hallmark of her care and encouragement.

On May 24, 1957, in Denver, Colorado, Janie married Reverend Donald F. Allen. Together, they shared a life dedicated to Christian ministry, education, and community service. 

 As the spouse of a longtime American Baptist minister, Janie played an integral role in church life wherever they lived. She was deeply involved in American Baptist Women (ABW), serving as ABW President and holding numerous other leadership roles over the years.

Throughout her life, Janie lived in Olathe, Kansas City, Wamego, Overland Park, Kansas, and Denver, Colorado, building lasting friendships and leaving a meaningful impact in every community she called home.

A devoted and respected educator, Janie taught in Kansas public schools for 25 years, serving in Kansas City, Kansas; Topeka; and the Shawnee Mission School District in Johnson County, Kansas. She was known for her thoughtful instruction, patient encouragement, and genuine care for her students, believing deeply in the power of education to shape lives. She retired from teaching in 1991.

Janie is survived by her three sons: Gregory B. Allen of Overland Park, Kansas; D. Jeffrey Allen and his wife Sandy of Shawnee, Kansas; and Virgil Allen and his wife Patty of Colorado Springs, Colorado. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren—Nicole (Josh) Sage, Sarah (Josh) Buhs, J. Blake Allen, Michael Shane Allen, Stephanie Allen, Katelyn Jane (Tommy) Woods, and Makeilee R. Allen—16 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom brought her great joy and pride.

Janie was a devoted sports fan, particularly of football. Even as her hearing declined, she enjoyed watching her favorite football teams, confident she could follow the action without needing to hear every play.

Janie will be remembered for her kindness, wisdom, unwavering faith, lifelong dedication to education, service, and her family.

Memorial contributions were suggested to American Baptist Churches USA International