Roberta "Bobbie" Allen

The Cubs chose to send off Bobbie in fine fashion — scoring 23 runs as she was leaving this earth. 

Roberta “Bobbie” Allen, 86, of Tremont, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

Bobbie was born June 15, 1940 in Peoria to Robert and Sarah (Terensky) Shreffler. She grew up and started a family on Peoria’s South Side before becoming a 52-year resident of Tremont. She was married to Thomas Allen from December 26, 1959 until his death in 2009.

Surviving are her daughter Carrie J. Allen (Pekin) and son David S. Allen (East Peoria). Survivors also include several cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother Michael Shreffler, and daughter-in-law Liz Wilkinson Allen (2025). 

Her Prophet, Priest and King was always first in Bobbie’s life. She lived Jesus’ love through all she did for others. We were taught about mitzvot from an early age, and they were just part of our lives. 

She loved feeding people. Until she went to the nursing home permanently, Bobbie was still helping Carrie prepare meals for those who needed them. Bobbie was known for her fudge, and every delivery person, garbage collector, and service person knew they would get treats at her house. 

Active in her community, Bobbie was a member and president of her Home Extension group. For many years, we had a Relay for Life team sponsored first by the Tazewell County Republicans, then by Luke Porritt. Her team’s fundraising and spirit made Luke’s Lucky Ladies team of the year. Bobbie retired as secretary to Chief John Webb and the Tremont Police Department. She was a precinct committeeman for two decades, the Tazewell County Republican chairwoman, and also served on the board of the Tremont Recreation League.

Even though Bobbie didn’t believe in dunking her head in water, she was 

baptized — in the swimming pool — and became a member of Tremont Baptist Church. 

Bobbie was one of the most patriotic people around. She was known for her patriotic parties and all that food! She loved putting out her flags, and she had an alarm on her iPad to remind her to get them before dark. When the Cubs quit telecasting the national anthem, the team got a letter from her. We had to stand with hand over heart any time it came on TV or the radio. 

Tom and Bobbie ministered to young people all their lives. They took in troubled teens, guided them in financial endeavors, taught them to cook and sew, and encouraged them in faith. Many young people’s lives were changed because of them. 

Bobbie developed our creativity early. We used to have picnics in the living room where we would describe the animals we could see beyond the blanket. That all contributed to our careers. 

Her funeral will be at 11:00 am Saturday, July 11, 2026 at Tremont Baptist Church.  Pastor Noah Lee will officiate.  Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church.  Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery in Tremont.  Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Tremont is handling the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, Bobbie would have appreciated any memorials go to Tremont Baptist Church or Grace to You, P.O. Box 4000, Panorama City, CA  91412.

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