To many, the name Jimmy Allen is almost synonymous with the word “evangelist.”  

In his long preaching career, he estimates he has conducted about 1,400 gospel meetings, with 40,000 to 50,000 responses and at least 10,000 baptisms.

Allen, who was baptized while studying at Harding College in Searcy, Ark., is perhaps best known for his 50 citywide preaching campaigns to tens of thousands in civic centers, coliseums and sports stadiums across the nation during the 1960s and 70s. During one 10-day meeting in Memphis, Tenn., in 1965, Allen said 270 people were baptized.

“From the day I became a Christian at Harding, I knew (the Gospel) was too good for me to keep my mouth shut,” Allen said. “I’ve shared the Gospel wherever I go — with hitchhikers, in a restaurant, on an airplane. Seems to me like this is what Christians are supposed to be doing.”