OBITUARY
Dean William Allen
September 18, 1955 – March 13, 2010
Dean William Allen passed away suddenly March 13, 2010 at the age of 54. He was the son of William Dean Allen and Undine Faison. He is survived by his wife Barbara, his three daughters Misty Joe Jackson, Jennie Locklear and Sallie Stephens, their mother Diane L. Allen, two grandsons Allen Jackson and Blake Stephens, his aunt Emma Albano, six brothers and sisters Richard Ferebee, Mary Diaz, Margaret Diaz, Barbara Diaz-Welch, June Bruusema and Perry Mitchell Jr., and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother Thomas Lynn.
Dean was raised on a farm in the area that is now North Raleigh on Spring Forest Rd when it was still a rural country road. To get to Raleigh, they walked out to Falls of the Neuse and caught the Greyhound bus coming down from Richmond. Later the family farmed off of US 401. Dean graduated from Millbrook High School in 1975. For many years, he lived in the Garner area and later after his marriage to Barbara, he moved back to north Raleigh just "down the road" from where he started.
In his early years, Dean worked various jobs from driving a school bus, working in the kitchen at the Plantation Inn and managing a hardware store to driving one of those same Greyhound busses he used to ride in as a child. Most of the time, he worked more than one job at the same time. For many years, he operated a sign business called Dean Allen Signs and at his death, he still did an occasional sign job for an old customer. Dean also worked for NCSU for over 20 years. The last three years, Dean was Facilities Maintenance Supervisor in the Transportation Department at the university.
Dean worked hard and played hard. He always had projects going especially involving anything with wheels. For many years he was an enthusiast of early Ford Econoline vans and attended events all over the country. Later when he bought his motorcycle, he joined the Southern Cruisers Riding Club where riding to Lexington for bar-b-cue lunch is a common event. More recently, he developed a passion for Ford Festivas, a little boxy car that hasn't been made in over 15 years. When he found the online Ford Festiva group, he found a new home. He was the co-founder of what is informally called the Festiva Madness car club and hosted an annual Festiva Madness car meet the last three years.
Dean spent considerable time maintaining contact with his extended family and with the many people he counted as friends through all of his passions. He had a way of relating to people that made you feel you were talking to an old friend after you had known him for 10 minutes. After his return to North Raleigh, he constantly ran into old family friends or school mates and did an amazing job of remembering folks and picking back up with them like he had just seen them the week before.
Dean was a warm, passionate man for whom family was extremely important. He was a caring, considerate man with a huge heart. He was always generous with his love, time, and knowledge. His untimely death leaves a huge hole in the center of this family that will be impossible to fill.
A remembrance and visitation will be held at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 1701 E. Millbrook Rd, Raleigh on Thursday March 18th at 6:00PM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Heart Association .
Condolences may be sent to www.BrownWynneEastMillbrook.com
Services
- Service of Remembrance Thursday, March 18, 2010
- Visitation Thursday, March 18, 2010
REMEMBERING
Dean William Allen
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RECEIVE UPDATESterry turner
January 7, 2018
I think of Dean every day. I have been lost since we lost him. Most people get over things and continue ok. I am not one of them
Margaret Diaz
January 6, 2018
Thinking about you brother. Wishing you were still here with us. Life is not the same without you.
Kenneth Timper
May 13, 2011
Dean and I took a wonderful trip to Cancun together, climbed El Castillo and beheld the beauty and majesty of the Yucatan. If/when I return there Dean, I'll gaze upon the vista, and remember you my friend. I did not know you were gone until today. I know the angels are looking out for you.
ralph jones
April 14, 2010
i have known dean allen(dino) for 30 years. he has constantly been an honest, hard working, caring and ingenious man. we dug out his crawl space in his little house with shovels in garner 30 yrs. ago so he could start his sign business. he was always a man who had the ability to smile under any condition. i will certainly miss dino and pray for his famitly-ralph jones
Cristy Barber
April 11, 2010
My family would like to send our respects to Dean's Family we are sorry and sad for your loss. We met him through the Festiva Club because we have a few our self. He was a very nice man and we are glad to have known him even though it was a short time.
We will say a prayer for all of you.
Bill Cristy Barber Raleigh NC
Rebecca Carter
March 22, 2010
We are deeply saddened by the sudden death of Joe. Our prayers go out to Dianne and her daughters.
Becky Carter,
Kelly Carter,Kaitlyn Skinner, Kaylie
Haynes, and baby David Haynes
Timothy Edmonds
March 19, 2010
Dean was so respected and admired by his friends at work that his presence will be deeply missed. Dean will always be remember not as a co-worker but as family. My thoughts and prayers go to all of Dean's family.
March 19, 2010
Dean and his family meant more to us than most will ever know. Turner family, Poole rd Raleigh.
March 19, 2010
This is Terry Turner. Most of Deans "newer" friends did not know me or my family, me, Kim and Marissa. I've known Dean, or "Joe" as he was often called by his family members, for over 20 years. Though I did not know everything about him or who he knew latley, we did share a whole lot of memories concerning our various interests and I'm especially found of those times we would gather at his home to work or hang out with Diane and the kids. This was a much simpler and happier time for me. Many things have been said about him but one important fact so far has been missed. He could handle a "situation" w/ ease. Be it a crisis at work, or on a personal level, for the most part he could get past any problem. Here's an example: Back in the 1990's the 2 of us drove to Washington NC in my 1963 Ford rollback to go purchase a '66 Ford Econoline van for around $200 or $300, I cant remember the exact amout. Per the initial phone conversation the seller assured us the vehicle was "rust free" w/ little repais needed. It was a long drive there and the guy was correct in a way. It was almost rust free, where the metal panel HAD BEEN there was not much rust showing, plus the engine had been partially dismantled! The guy was a smart mouth and shorlty there after a shouting match between him and myself ensued, followed by a near slug fest! Dean quickly stepped in, told me to calm down and walk away. 10 minutes later after he had a "talk" w/ this person, we handed him $25 and loaded the van! I cant say enough about him and no one can. I know without him around it will never be the same again. I'm so glad Barbara was able to know him and share in his adventures and interests, I'm sorry only that it wasn't for a longer time and that we (our family) did not get to spend more time with Dean and Barbara. For those Festiva folks out there, he tried to get me interested in them and even gave me a car. After 2 years I never did get into the things and I sold mine a couple of weeks ago. For those of you w/ those "little cars", good luck! If you knew Dean you were damn lucky! Our thoughts and prayers forever, Terry.
Adam & Sheri Glassford
March 19, 2010
Dean was a kindhearted gentleman, who treated strangers like family. His friendliness and charm made it easy to like him instantly. The more we got to know him, the more endearing he became to us. Aaron and I will always treasure our trips south to visit him and Barbara and especially the Econoline farm. We will always think of our dear friend every time we drive or even look at his old econoline pickup sitting now in our garage as a tribute to such a wonderful man. He was a great man who will be missed greatly.
Melissa Young
March 18, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. Dean was a great man and always made me laugh. He will be missed by everyone he touched.
March 18, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go to the Allen family. Dean was a friend and a mentor. He showed me my way around NCSU Transportation and Campus as a whole. I will always remember those days we sat around and talked about nothing and everything... I will miss you my friend, and see you when the time is right...... Pa Sanneh (Raleigh, NC).
Ken Ingraham
March 18, 2010
Dean made the world a better place, a happier place. I will miss his friendly smile and always entertaining stories.
Terri Barnes
March 18, 2010
My husband and I did not know Dean. We met for a brief time at Misty and Jody's wedding. The kind words about this man tell how great a guy he was. We love you so much Misty. We are very sorry for your loss honey. Our thoughts and prayers go out for you and your family.May God carry you in his arms during this time in your life. We love you, Jerry,Terri and Dylan Barnes
Jason Stephens
March 18, 2010
Dean was a good man! He would help you if you needed help! He took my wife and I on many vehicle hunting adventures! He was a great father in law, and will be missed alot! We love and miss you Dean!..........Jason Stephens(Garner, NC)
Rebecca Breakey
March 18, 2010
I did not know Dean, but I do know that he and his wife raised an amazing woman; their daughter Misty.
I know that there will be a part of Misty that will always ache for her father, but will, in time, be soothed by all of the wonderful memories that she has of such a wonderful man.
It is clear that he was loved by many. God called him home so that He might enjoy one He lent to the Allen family for so many wonderful years.
May your fond memories sustain you all through this difficult time.
The Breakey Family
Brenda Blackman
March 18, 2010
Dean had a big, loving heart and will be missed dearly...May the Lord be with Dean's family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all....Brenda Blackman
Paul Short
March 18, 2010
All my thoughts and love to Deans family. Dean was a great and caring man, always there to lend a hand. I know his help to me alone was considerable!
Sallie Diane-Allen Stephens
March 18, 2010
What I will miss the most is holding my daddy's belly when I would hug him. When I was little I nicknamed him "fatty daddy" and he loved it. We used to pull out the matresses and wrestle for hours until one of us would say "I give". Let me be honest I never said it first. I do remember putting my daddy's head thru the wall once. It left a large hole and mom was not happy about it. Dad and I would work on cars together. I was the boy they never had. He would take me on the econco fest trips and we would have so much fun. We had our ups and downs at 510 Hilltop Avenue, the memories are so adventurous we could write a book that everyone would want to read. I will miss my "fatty daddy" but he is in heaven with his family. He is living better now than he ever has. He served his time here on earth for others now it is time for him to play and have fun for himself. He deserves it! We love you daddy. We will continue to make you proud. Please look over us as our days continue here. We will see you again some day.
angelia & william baker
March 18, 2010
from the minute i shock his hand at my front door I knew he was part of our famiy . as the years went by me and william came to call him brother and my kids dad . He will be miss but not ever forgotten . we love you dean
Leigh Foushee
March 18, 2010
Misty, I am so sorry. The only comfort comes from knowing your dad is waking with the Father and walking among angels. Only God knows your pain, he also knows how to comfort you and heal you. Your family is in my prayers. ~ Leigh Liles Foushee, GSHS`93.
Melissa Hill
March 18, 2010
Misty, Jennie and Sallie
My family and I are praying that God will comfort you and give you His strength during this difficult time. Know that your father loved you and always will!!! We love you!
Dominique & Helene Lynn
March 18, 2010
Uncle Joe,
You were an amazing person with a generous heart and spirit. I can't tell you how much of a loss this has been to the whole family. You will be missed serverly by each and everyone of us. I am at peace knowing that you are with your loved ones as well as my daddy. Hope you two don't make too much of a ruckus up there ;) I love you alot and will always miss your smile.
Dominique & Helene Lynn
& Daddy in spirit.
Kristen Will
March 18, 2010
Jennie and family,
Your Dad was a great man. Jennie, I know he was very proud of you and so happy for you and Calvin. We talked just a few weeks ago about how well the two of you are doing. Just know you were all loved by him. He is in good hands and I am sure he is helping everyone out in heaven (just his great nature!). You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if you need anything.
March 18, 2010
I did not know Dean..however, he raised an amazing daughter. Misty, please know you and your family our in my thoughts and prayers! We love you!
Shannon
The Burns Family
Karen McIntyre
March 17, 2010
Dean was a lovely, kind, sweet person and the world will be a little less so without him.
Sam Holliman
March 17, 2010
Dean was one of the most genuine, caring people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He was always willing to lend a hand & help someone. We shared a passion for our little Festiva cars, and Dean was always challenging me to go further than I thought we could. He helped me believe in myself once again. We shared many laughs, frustrations and good times. He and Barbara became my extended family soon after I met them. I will never forget his drive, enthusiasm, wit, his incredible expertise with all things mechanical and most importantly his laughter. I will keep you alive in my heart, Dean, for the rest of my days.
March 17, 2010
I have known Dean for 37 years, and we have worked together for the last 23 years. He was always willing to help his friends, and loved one's. To Dean's Family, he will always be loved and missed!
Dwight Carter
March 17, 2010
Dean you will be missed. Peace and blessings upon your family.
The Carter Family
Eddie Jones
March 17, 2010
I don't remember much about Dean other than he was a big boy and liked to work on cars, I think. We went to school together at Millbrook, both in high school and middle school. Hate to hear he passed on. Here's hopping he gets to tinker on motors in heaven. EJ
Robert Way
March 17, 2010
I had the pleasure of working with Dean at NC State for a year and will never forget that time I spent with him. He was a very friendly and helpful man that tought me a new talent of making signs and working with graphics. As I told him the last time we spoke, it's not goodbye; it's till we meet again.
March 17, 2010
There was only one Dean Allen. What a wonderful, uplifting smile and sweet natured person. Always offering to help. My husband Mike and I were blessed to call he and Barb friends. I always enjoyed watching Dean and Barb together - - so much love there.... I'll take a ride for you, Dean... soon!
Always,
Cindy and Mike Hodges
Janice Wells
March 17, 2010
May the LORD be with your family now and always as they pass through these very trying times in their life. Let us think of Dean as a ship on the Sea of Life, he has now left the harbour as we know it. Those he has left behind are standing with tears in their eyes, and a heavy heart, as they wave goodby they are crying and shouting "There he goes", but those on the other side are oh so very happy to see his ship entering their harbour and as voices raise in cheerful sound they are Shouting "Here he comes"
Dean was a co-worker of mine and he will be missed by all
Paul Mays
March 17, 2010
We will miss your bright warm personality. Thank you so much Dean for your shining example of what a good friend should be. Paul Mays
Marshae Williams
March 17, 2010
Misty, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Please know we love you!!
Love,
Marshae and family
Patrick Warren
March 17, 2010
Dean & Barb opened their doors to many car enthusiasts over the years, myself included. Dean's kind of love was genuine: he asked nothing in return. A great and wonderful man who will be missed by all.
Jennie Locklear
March 17, 2010
We miss you Dad.
Don Roberts
March 16, 2010
Dean was a wonderful neighbor and friend He made a special magnet for our church and many members have saved it in his memory , We had a lot of great times going up to the Farm and talking about all his projects . He will be helping God keep things running in heaven just like he did on earth, We love him and will miss him ,Don & Dotty Roberts
Betsy Mabe
March 16, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go to all of Dean's family. He had so much love for his family. My children will miss their Uncle Dean.
FROM THE FAMILY
Dean William Allen
FROM THE FAMILY
Surf City
FROM THE FAMILY
Holding Misty Joe
FROM THE FAMILY
So proud to show off his 2nd born to his Mama, Undine Allen.
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy feeding Misty Joe
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy holding Misty Joe
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy, Margaret, and Florence
FROM THE FAMILY
Thomas, Ricky, Mary, Dean, Margaret, Bobbi, June, and Perry
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy and Patsy
FROM THE FAMILY
Dean and Perry at Sallie's wedding.
FROM THE FAMILY
Dean, June, Margaret, and Ricky
FROM THE FAMILY
Allen family in Tennessee
FROM THE FAMILY
Margaret, Bobbi, Dean, and June at Misty's wedding
FROM THE FAMILY
Dominique, Dean, and Helene
FROM THE FAMILY
Diane and Dean at Misty's wedding
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy looking handsome at the Stephen's wedding.
FROM THE FAMILY
Dean in his big orange suspenders hanging with Diane
FROM THE FAMILY
Misty, Dean, and Allen at Sallie's wedding
FROM THE FAMILY
Sallie, Dad, & Jennie before prom 1997
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy loved to have his knees in the breeze.
FROM THE FAMILY
Big bear hugs
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy and Misty Joe with an "E". LOL!
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy loved his Alien Abductee t-shirt.
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy and Sallie at a Bronco graveyard. 2000
FROM THE FAMILY
Barbara and Dean Married July 22, 2000 at Myrtle Beach, SC
FROM THE FAMILY
Barbara with the gaze of love for Dean.
FROM THE FAMILY
Barbara and Dean happy as ever!
FROM THE FAMILY
Holding on tight to the love she will never forget.
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy and Barbara at the Bronco graveyard. Daddy loved that Barbara was involved in the trips.
FROM THE FAMILY
Barbara and Dean at the 2008 Festiva Meet here in Raleigh, NC
FROM THE FAMILY
Misty Joe, Blake, Dean, Sallie, Jennie, Allen, and Diane.
FROM THE FAMILY
Getting together at the Outback
FROM THE FAMILY
Gathering for Daddy's 51st birthday at the Olive Garden.
FROM THE FAMILY
Allen and Blake with their PaPa for his birthday surprise. It was one of Daddy's happiest days.
FROM THE FAMILY
Allen, PaPa, and Blake
FROM THE FAMILY
Grandpa Dean and Allen at Sallie's wedding.
FROM THE FAMILY
August 2005, Blakes first birthday. Proud Grandpa.
FROM THE FAMILY
Silly face time with Grandpa Dean. Grandpa loved doing this.
FROM THE FAMILY
Grandpa and Blake being silly.
FROM THE FAMILY
"Did you know, your from peppermint pattie?" Grandpa Dean loved his stories.
FROM THE FAMILY
Blake and Daddy at one of Daddys favorite places...Char-Grill.
FROM THE FAMILY
Grandpa Dean giving the old rabbit ears. Silly willy!
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy got really lucky two times in his life!
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy showing off his cake. Daddy was very proud of his girls that day. Surprise!
FROM THE FAMILY
Dean, John, and Sam at Ohiostiva.
FROM THE FAMILY
Dean and the Ohiostiva crew 2009
FROM THE FAMILY
51st birthday so happy to pass 50!
FROM THE FAMILY
Dean at Allen's baby shower.
FROM THE FAMILY
Dad enjoying his Christmas present
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy riding at the farm.
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy playing with his toys.
FROM THE FAMILY
Dad's pass time
FROM THE FAMILY
Daddy with his favorite doll Ruby.
FROM THE FAMILY
Father's day gift. "Best Festiva Award" Daddy earned it.
FROM THE FAMILY
Southern Cruisers
FROM THE FAMILY
One of Dad's many Festiva's
FROM THE FAMILY
Dean, James, and Ricky
FROM THE FAMILY
Dean looking handsome.
FROM THE FAMILY
Perry, Thomas, Dean at Misty's wedding
FROM THE FAMILY
Ricky, Thomas, Bobbi, and Dean
FROM THE FAMILY
Thomas, Helene, and Domnique
FROM THE FAMILY
Thomas for "Prosperity"
IN THE CARE OF