Thomas Glenn Allen

Tom grew up in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he played football and basketball at Lane High School. He had a football scholarship at Virginia Military Institute, where he graduated with a degree in civil engineering. He received an MBA from the Darden School at the University of Virginia, and then had a commission in the United States Air Force. Tom served overseas as an engineer during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Captain.

Tom was a marketing representative at IBM for 24 years. He was truly a people-lover, enjoying so very much working with fellow IBMers in the branch office and with customers across Eastern North Carolina. He received many awards at IBM, including attending several Golden Circle events for IBM's top salespeople. It was at IBM that he met Carol, his wife of 28 years. They were kindred spirits in their zest for life and sense of humor.

When Tom was younger, he loved sailing and especially sailboat racing, a passion he shared with his son Brent. And after Tom stopped playing sports, he still enjoyed watching sports, especially his beloved UVA Cavaliers. He was also a gourmet chef, trying out many recipes on family and friends.

In his later years, Tom cherished his Generations Sunday School at Greystone Baptist Church. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels and also the Baptist Clothes Closet. He loved children and animals, although as he became a bit of a curmudgeon, he seriously suggested that Disney World set aside a day each week to allow no children in the park. He was gently reminded that someone with a career in marketing should know better.

Tom and Carol travelled the world, having visited all 50 states. In the last few years, they travelled with a group of friends that included some of Tom's "Brother Rats" from VMI. When they travelled to Antarctica last year, it was their 7th continent.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Helen Allen; his sister Susan and her husband Jim Copeland; and his brother-in law Jay Hockman.

Tom's survivors include his wife Carol, son Brent and his wife Caroline of Annapolis, MD, his sister Kay Hockman of Manassas, VA, numerous nieces and nephews, and his dog Boone.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday at 1 p.m. at Greystone Baptist Church, 7509 Lead Mine Road, Raleigh 27615. Donations may be made to Greystone in honor of Tom's memory.

Arrangements by Brown Wynne Funeral Home on East Millbrook Road in Raleigh.