Loys Allmand Little was born October 20, 1932 in Baird, TX to James Robert and Beulah Laningham Childers. She was welcomed by brothers Tommy and John. They settled on a farm near Ovalo that is still in the family today. Loys graduated Salutatorian of her South Taylor High class of 1950.
Following graduation she married her high school sweetheart Floyd Allmand. His job with Lone Star Gas took them to Snyder where Vickie, Doug and Pamela Jo came along. There they both served on the Volunteer Fire Dept. Floyd was Chief and the Ladies’ Team placed 1st at the State Fire Convention Races. They enjoyed bowling leagues and were members of Colonial Hills Baptist Church.
At 36 Loys began her college career. Through 2 moves she persevered earning her Education degree from Tarleton University. Her first job was 5th grade in Springtown. Their final transfer in 1973 led them back to Eastland where she taught 2nd grade then 1st for 10 years. During that time she earned her Masters Degree and Mid Management Certification. In 1984 she accepted the Principal position at Siebert Elementary cherishing the job, teachers and kids for 11 years.
Retirement took her and Floyd to View, TX living in her grandparents’ rock house where they had married 47 years before. They joined View Baptist Church where her grandparents were founding members. After Floyd’s passing in 1999 Loys went to Russia with Luke on a mission trip. Reed planned and treated her to cruises to Alaska, Hawaii, South America, the Panama Canal and to Jamaica. She and Vickie visited Ireland. Years before she traveled to Zambia with First Baptist Eastland.
Back home Sunday evening ice cream gatherings were the highlight of the week. Every holiday, birthday or special event was celebrated at Mawmaw’s. No matter who you were once you came you were welcomed as family.
There was another addition to the family when an old classmate began to email. In September 2001 Marc and Loys Little were married on the football field in Tuscola where Marc had crowned her football sweetheart in 1949. They enjoyed 6 years together until Marc’s passing.
Growing up on the farm during the depression and war years forged solid family and friendships that lasted a lifetime. One of her fondest memories was of a tent revival where she professed her faith in Jesus. She was baptized in a neighbor’s stock tank wearing a flour sack dress. She and her 13 classmates remained friends and enjoyed monthly lunches. Work associates were and are extended family members. The same grace God shows each of us is the grace she extended to others, any who accept and believe are received. She demonstrated that love volunteering at ABA Social Ministries working for 18 years serving as director 7 of those years.
December 2022 found her in rehab after a stroke. Admissions asked her what her goals were. She said, “For my life? To witness for Jesus, get better and go home!” She had hoped we would all rapture together so she did not have to leave anyone behind but on December 28, 2022 at the age of 90 she answered God’s call to go home. Sad to leave but eager for each of us to join her.
She accomplished her goal getting better and going home making each of us better in the process.
We who remain looking forward to a great reunion day are kids Vickie Allmand, Doug Allmand and wife Karen, Jo Shipman and husband Darrell. Stepchildren Cindy Murphy and husband Geoff and Larsen Little and wife Rachel. 11 grandchildren, 7 grandchildren by marriage, 12 great grandchildren, brother in laws Gene Allmand, J.W. Allmand and wife Leola, numerous nieces and nephews, Church family, lifelong friends and her always faithful Friday 42 domino crew.
Pallbearers are grandsons Tim Hull, Luke Shipman, Christopher Allmand, Jared Allmand, James Shipman and Matt Allmand. Honorary pallbearers Reed Allmand, Alan Pitts, Michael Aloi and Cory Row.
Visitation will be at Elmwood Funeral Home Thursday, January 5th, 5:00 – 7:00. Funeral at Elmwood Chapel Friday, January 6th at 1:00 pm. Officiated by Rev. Greg O. Rake and Pastor Danny Brown.
In lieu of flowers remembrances may be sent to View Baptist Church, Salvation Army or charity of your choice.
