Cynthia M. Allen

Cynthia “Cindy” Marie Allen, 72, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 8:23 p.m. Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at OSF Richard Owens Hospice Home, Peoria, Illinois, surrounded by her children.

Cindy was born October 28, 1953 in Clinton, Iowa, the daughter of, Robert M. and M. Monica (Leonard) Southwell. Cindy graduated from Galesburg High School in 1971 and from Nursing School in 1981. Cindy worked for 20 years at Galesburg Cottage Hospital in pediatrics. She spent her last years in home health as a pediatric nurse, retiring in 2014.

Cindy married Danny L. Allen on June 13, 1970. She is survived by her four children, daughter, Melissa (Mark) Serio of Kennewick, Washington; three sons, Danny L. Allen, Jr. of Sunrise Beach, Missouri, Rusty (Tonya) Allen of Galesburg, and Jeff (Brittney) Allen of Knoxville, Illinois; and one brother, Robert J. Southwell of Greybull, Wyoming. Cindy is also survived by her pride and joy, 9 grandchildren, Jacob Allen, Giavanna D’Agati Allen, Benjamin Serio, Claire Serio, Kaylee Allen, Madison Allen, Ella Allen, Jett Allen, and Ruby Allen. Along with her parents, Cindy was preceded in death by two brothers, Dennis Southwell and Thomas Southwell.

Aside from being a dedicated nurse, family always came first for Cindy. She could always be found in the stands cheering on her children and later grandchildren’s sporting events, or supporting every activity they were involved in. Cindy was a natural caregiver and had the kindest heart and would do anything for anyone. She loved to cook and bake, always making sure everyone she loved got their special birthday cake or pie. She was a longtime member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church, was a member of the Altar and Rosary Society, and enjoyed attending Bible Study. She enjoyed life to the fullest, whether it was listening to music, dancing, or going out with friends, Cindy was up for a good time. At home, Cindy like to watch television and movies, play cards, and be with her pets. An avid collector, Cindy enjoyed shopping and collecting many different knick-knacks.

Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 26, 2026 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Deacon Robert Wood officiating. Burial will be at Henderson Cemetery, Henderson, Illinois. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.