11/24/2025
Terri A. Allen passed away peacefully at her home in Mason City, Illinois, on November 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on February 3, 1955, in Springfield, Illinois, to James and Patty Clifford. Terri’s life was a beautiful melody, one that resonated through her devotion to family, her faith, and her music.
From an early age, Terri’s gift for the piano brought joy to those around her. Her music filled her home with warmth and became a treasured part of family gatherings, church services, and quiet evenings. After graduating from Mason City High School, she attended the University of Illinois where she majored in psychology. It was during this time that she met her soulmate, Joe Allen, with whom she shared 50 years of marriage. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and hard work on their family farm in rural Green Valley. Terri poured her heart into raising their three sons, instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance, and devotion to family.
Terri’s nurturing spirit extended beyond her home. She worked as an aide at Illini Central High School, where she touched the lives of countless students. Her gentle encouragement and unwavering belief in others left a lasting impression, reminding young people that they were valued, and capable of great things.
Her faith was the cornerstone of her life at the Christian Church of Mason City. Terri served faithfully as a deaconess, pianist, choir member, and Bible study leader. She shared her gifts not only through music but also through her steadfast example of service and devotion. Her faith was not simply practiced on Sundays; it was lived daily, in the way she loved her family, supported her friends, and cared for her community.
Terri’s legacy continues through her devoted husband, Joe; her children, Jonathan “Bo” (Barbie) Allen, Ryan (Kisha) Allen, and Miles (Katie) Allen; and her ten beloved grandchildren: Zac (Lizzy), Aurora, Logan, Layla, Jarrett, Jaci, Weston, Peyton, Elizabeth, and Wyatt. She is also survived by her sister, Cindy (Danny) Fletcher. Terri is reunited in peace with her parents, James and Patty Clifford, whose love and guidance shaped the remarkable woman she became.
A visitation to celebrate Terri’s life will be held on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. at Mason City Christian Church. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m., with burial at Prairie Rest Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance, honoring Terri’s life, faith, and the cherished memories she leaves behind. Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Delavan is handling the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites contributions to celebrate Terri’s legacy. Donations may be directed to her memorial page with the American Cancer Society or to the Illini Central Middle/High School “Make a Difference” Fund (checks payable to Illini Central). Each gift reflects Terri’s generous heart and her enduring wish to uplift others.
Terri will be remembered for her music, her faith, and the love she gave so freely. Her life was a song of devotion, and though the melody has quieted, its echoes will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
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