Jennifer Hardigree Allen

Jennifer Hardigree Allen

January 8, 1957 - March 16, 2025

Jennifer Hardigree Allen, 68, of Statham, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Athens, GA, on January 8, 1957, Jen was raised in Bogart and graduated from Oconee County High School. She began her career caring for patients at a local pediatrician’s office before working in the Oconee County School System, where she nurtured and impacted countless children. Jen’s innate ability to connect with people and build meaningful relationships led her to the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business Alumni Relations department, where she spent the remainder of her career fostering lifelong connections between the college and its alumni.

While Jen was deeply dedicated to her career, her greatest passion was her family. She was the beloved daughter of Floyce Hardigree and Hilda Garrett and shared an unbreakable bond with her sister, Brenda (Bill) Dupre. Jen and Bren were a force of nature—sisters, best friends, and each other’s greatest sources of support and comfort.

On August 21, 1976, Jen married John Robert Allen, Jr, her high school sweetheart and HHBL (Hunka Hunka Burning Love). For nearly 49 years, they inspired everyone around them with their deep friendship and unwavering love. Whether sipping coffee together, preparing home-cooked meals, traveling, or raising their three children—Sara (Walt), Maggie (Sham), and John III (Anna)—Jen and John built a life centered on love, laughter, and cherished family traditions. Annual family vacations with the entire crew were legendary.

Jen fostered the love of family which was always growing. Jenny’s infectious energy and joyful personality was spread to each of her seven grandchildren: Ella Kate (16), Jones (12), Millie (11), Noah (10), Sophie (8), Banks (7), and Bodhi (2). Each of them knew they were Jen Jen’s favorite—a title they all proudly claimed. From Christmas pajama traditions and baking cookies to Target runs and impromptu dance parties, Jen Jen created moments that will be treasured forever. She was their biggest cheerleader, always present at their games, performances, and milestones, making each grandchild feel uniquely special.

Jen had an unmatched zest for life. She loved playing bridge with friends, cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs, hosting BIG family meals, traveling, and volunteering for causes close to her heart. She lived life to the fullest, with boundless energy, generosity, and joy.

In the last eight years, Jen found deep purpose in giving back. The University Cancer and Blood Center (UCBC) played a vital role in her cancer journey, and she was devoted to supporting its mission through frequent volunteering. The doctors, nurses, and staff were more than caregivers; they were dear friends who provided her with strength, hope, and comfort.

Jen’s faith was the foundation of her life. She loved like Jesus and believed in angels. She reminded us by saying “if you’re very still, you can witness and feel them.” In her final days, Jen comforted her family by confidently saying “the Lord is with me.”

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, April 3rd, at 3pm at The Georgia Club. In keeping with Jen’s joyful spirit, please wear bright colors and cheerful attire - so that we may honor her life with the same warmth and vibrancy she brought to us all.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to UCBC Cares Foundation (www.UCBCCares.org), The Cancer Foundation (www.cancerfoundationofnega.org) or ALK Positive research (http://alkpositive.org).

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com