Dr. Judith Allen

Dr. Judith Allen of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 12 at Mercy Hospice in Johnston, at the age of 61. She was born on July 13, 1953 in Little Rock, Ark., to Ernest and Carl Anne Matkin. Judy's life was devoted to teaching others. She earned her PhD. in psychology at the University of Arkansas and taught first at Colgate University, from 1985-1988, and then as an Associate Professor of Psychology at Drake University from 1988-2014. She was a social psychologist specializing in stereotyping & prejudice, ethnic conflict & peace-making, and theories of consciousness. She was passionate about Tai Chi and Qigong, becoming a respected teacher of both disciplines. She is survived by her two children, Bo Allen of Des Moines, Iowa and Jon Allen of Springdale, Ark.; her three grandchildren, Zora, Beatrice, and River; and her sister, Mary Purvis of Fayetteville, Ark. She was preceded by her brother, Bo Matkin; and her parents, Ernest and Carl Anne Matkin. Judy was active in Above and Beyond Cancer, and supported Heifer International and Human Rights Watch. For those who wish, donations can be made to these organizations. Her memory will be honored at 10 a.m., Aug. 23, at Roselawn Memorial Park in Little Rock, Ark.