Joe Clark Allen

He was born on Sept. 17, 1932, in Mecklenburg County, NC, to the late William Herman and Ruby Helms Allen.

He retired from the U.S. Army after twenty-two years of distinguished service to his country. His service included tours in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He received numerous medals and commendations including two purple hearts. He retired from the Army with a rank of Sergeant First Class. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, a member of the Marshville (NC) American Legion, and a member of the Masonic Lodge. Mr. Allen also retired from the US Postal Service after twenty years of service. He deeply loved and honored his country.

Survivors include his five children, Alanza (Bob) Ferguson, Mint Hill, NC; Jason Allen, Columbus, NC; Kimberly (James) Newman, Boiling Springs, SC; Joe Moore, Denver, NC; and Vicki (Kip) Thompson, Matthews, NC; his sister, Virginia Roberts, Mint Hill; four granddaughters, Mackenzie Newman, Amanda Ferguson, and Abigail and Madison Newman; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister and one brother.

His family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 5, 2011, from 9:30am-11am at the McEwen Funeral Service-Mint Hill Chapel, 7428 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd., Mint Hill, NC, followed immediately by his funeral service. The Reverend Jim Phillips will officiate. Interment will be in Sharon Memorial Park Cemetery with full graveside military honors.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Union County, 700 W. Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe, NC 28110.

The family would like to extend its deepest appreciation to Dr. Carmine Dalto and the other physicians at Presbyterian Pulmonary and Critical Care as well as the staff of Hospice of Union County.

Condolences to the family may be offered at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com.