Billy (Bill) Thomas Allen, 85, died peacefully on March 15th 2018 at Hillcrest Convalescent Home in Durham, N.C. surrounded by his family. He was born in Roxboro, N.C. to the late Lafayette and Mamie Allen. He’s survived by his wife of 58 years – Jo Lynne Stephenson Allen and sons Brad Allen and wife Judy Dew of Chapel Hill, NC, Greg Allen of New Bern, N.C and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers L.D., Jr., Lewis, Adrian, Carlyle, Jack and sister Katherene. Bill grew up in Raleigh, NC and graduated from Millbrook High School. He served his country in the US Navy for 4 years during the Korean War as a pharmacy mate on the USNS Greely and USS Corregidor. He attended UNC Pharmacy School and graduated with a degree of Pharmacy in 1959. Bill began his career as a pharmacist at Rex Hospital in Raleigh later opening the pharmacy at the “new” Wake Memorial Hospital (now Wake Med). He left there to become part owner of Cromley’s Pharmacy and later left there for the pharmacy at Martin General Hospital in Williamston, N.C. In 1966 he moved to New Bern and opened Allen Drugs later moving to Pollocksville, N.C. in 1971 where his store remains today. Bill loved his work and helping the people of Jones County. He always said he could never have found a town or county where the people were as nice and genuine. Bill enjoyed traveling with Jo Lynne to visit her sister in Tacoma WA. Also, they enjoyed trips to Utah, Las Vegas and many other places. Visitation will be held at Cotten Funeral Home on Monday March 19th from 6 to 8 pm. Funeral services for Bill will be held on Tuesday March, 20th at Garber UMC 4201 Country Club Rd. New Bern, N.C. at 2 p.m followed by a reception in the fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Garber UMC or the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences may be made to the Allen family at www.cottenfuneralhome.com
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18