OBITUARY
Dr. LeRoy Allen
June 1, 1923 – March 7, 2012
Dr. LeRoy Allen died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on March 7, 2012. He was born in Raleigh, NC, on July 1, 1923, living on his family property, Roylan Wood, his entire life. Dr. Allen was predeceased by his parents, his daughter Linda Allen and his brother Rufus Allen. He is survived by his wife of over 60 years Gloria Eason Allen; his son Dr. Robert L. Allen and wife Celeste, of Raleigh; his daughter Sally Allen Watkins and husband Randy, of Matthews, NC; his grandchildren Nicole Dailey Bergemann and husband Matt, of Greensboro; Callie Allen Lowe and husband Matt, of Atlanta, GA; and Celeste Allen Chapman and husband Chris, of Baltimore, MD. Dr. Allen was a nature lover and avid outdoorsman. As a student at Needham Broughton High School his nickname was “Trapper” because of his superb hunting skills. He graduated from Wake Forest College where his great intellectual talents and exceptional skills were developed at Shorty’s poolroom. After graduating from Bowman Gray School of Medicine in 1947, he completed a surgical residency. He was a United States Naval officer in the Korean War. After the war, he completed his neurosurgical training under the famous Dr. Walter Crutchfield at the University of Virginia. During that period, a neurosurgical specialty was in its infancy, and many physicians doubted whether a neurosurgeon was necessary in Raleigh, since neurosurgeons were available at Duke and the University of the North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Not to be deterred, he returned to his native Raleigh, determined to offer neurosurgery to this area. He practiced nearly 40 years, establishing Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic, which has continued his legacy of excellence. Dr. LeRoy was adored by his patients and greatly respected by his peers. He was a member of the NC Medical Society, the Wake County Medical Society, the Southern Neurosurgical Society, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the Kiwanis Club, and was a Mason. In 1993, he was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Governor James Martin. Carteret County, NC, was Dr. LeRoy’s “second” home, where he was fondly known around the Anchorage Marina as “Doc” and “Captain.” Captain LeRoy was renowned for his fishing and boating exploitations, and he especially loved marlin fishing. Twice he captured the Big Rock Marlin Tournament. The first time, in 1962, alone in the Gulf Stream on a 21 foot outboard he built in his garage, he caught a 487 pound blue marlin. Through the years his boats got bigger. Again, in his garage, he built from a raw hull a 41 foot Stapleton craft with a large tuna tower, rather than a traditional cabin. It was a mighty “wet” boat, but landed a lot of fish, including many a marlin. He also won the Big Rock in 1983, though this time on a 62 foot yacht built by Omie Tillet in Wanchese, NC. Dr. LeRoy was a man of many skills. An expert machinist, wood-worker, fiberglasser, electrician and plumber, all contributed to his boat-building abilities. His practicality was evident in both his workshop at home and in the operating room. If a piece of surgical equipment were broken and considered beyond repair, the OR nurses would send the instrument home with him and he would inevitably make repairs and improvements. Dr. Allen retired from neurosurgery in 1993, several months before his 70th birthday, so he could pursue fishing and boating on a more fulltime basis with his loyal mate Al Lathan and Captain Bill Christian. He fondly referred to retirement as “every day is a Saturday.” His other hobby in recent years was using a game camera to photograph the wildlife in his backyard woods and his fox families were well fed on hotdogs and table scraps. A keen bird watcher, he loved and appreciated all aspects of God’s creation. Dr. Allen’s funeral will be held at 2:00pm, on Sunday, March 11, 2012, at Edenton Street United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends in Kerr Hall after the service. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of Wake County, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607. The family wishes to thank Dr. LeRoy’s wonderful doctors, nurses and caretakers including Christine, Lekita Essa, David and Mary. Arrangements by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, Saint Mary’s St. Raleigh.
Services
- Memorial Service Sunday, March 11, 2012
REMEMBERING
Dr. LeRoy Allen
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RECEIVE UPDATESKathy Cooke
March 31, 2012
Please accept my sincere and deepest sympathy! Dr. Leroy Allen was a great guy and true friend, as a neighbor at Anchorage Marina I could share a lot of funny stories about Leroy and "Big Al". Dr. Allen was one of the greatest Neuro surgeons. Sincerely, Kathy Cooke, Raleigh, N.C.
Donna Jones
March 28, 2012
I recall this gentleman as my mother's dr. back in the late 60's - 70's. She had artery disease . I think at that time his office was close to an old private hospital near Krispy Kreme donuts. Even back then just to hear his name seemed like he was a celebrity of sorts . Sorry for your loss . Donna B. Jones , Kenly ,NC
March 23, 2012
I also worked as an RN with Dr. Allen in the Wake operating room, for several years in the seventies. He was quite a character, and really liked the nurses and staff. We always thought of him as the Jimmy Buffet of the OR, as his songs were among some of the ones he enjoyed while operating. Dr. Allen operated on my mother, and she loved him to death. He also saw my husband after he had bilateral brain aneurysms, guiding me through what was coming and what to expect. I am grateful to him for all of his knowledge, teaching, compassion and kindness. My condolences to all of him family and friends.
Linda Wilkerson
Kenneth Hodges
March 21, 2012
I worked as an RN in the O.R. at Wake Med from 1983 to 1988 and always looked forward to the days I was assigned in Dr. Allen's room. He was always a joy to work with. I had an idea that Hemmingway would have thought him the perfect "Old Man and the Sea".
I have thought of him often in my career since leaving Wake, and thank him for much of the knowledge I have that I use as an O.R. nurse today. I am saddened at his passing, but rest comfortably in knowing that Heaven is now a better place for his presence there. My condolences to all his family
Patsy
March 21, 2012
As a patient, Dr. Allen rescued me from extreme pain by performing a lumbar lamenectomy on an emergency basis on me in 1978. I was able to walk again, no pain, take care of my young family, and live a fruitful and happy life. During my post-op visits, I was so impressed with his care, superb and kind care, that when my 2 children entered high school and college, I entered 2 years at NCSU and transferred to UNC School of Nursing graduating in the top 10% of my class. I had discussed my dream with Dr. Allen with him giving me encouragement to become a RN. I became a critical care RN sharing with him that my dream did come true, so much because he told me that if I didn't go forward with my dream that I would truly snuff my candle out prematurely. What a wonderful and gracious man Dr. Allen was, and he truly lives on in the people he so generously helped through the years. Moreover, dreams are fulfilled on earth many times guided by those on earth and in heaven. Thank you family of Dr. Allen, and Dr. Allen, for so unselfishly giving of yourselves to others. Patsy A., Raleigh, N.C.
Patsy
March 21, 2012
As a patient, Dr. Allen rescued me from extreme pain by performing a lumbar lamenectomy on an emergency basis on me in 1978. I was able to walk again, no pain, take care of my young family, and live a fruitful and happy life. I was so impressed with his care, superb and kind care, that when my 2 children entered high school and college, I entered 2 years at NCSU and transferred to UNC School of Nursing graduating in the top 10% of my class. I had discussed my dream with Dr. Allen with him giving me encouragement to become a RN. I became a critical care RN sharing with him that my dream did come true, so much because he told me that if I didn't go forward with my dream that I would truly snuff my candle out prematurely. What a wonderful and gracious man Dr. Allen was, and he truly lives on in the people he so generously helped through the years. Moreover, dreams are fulfilled on earth many times guided by those on earth and in heaven. Thank you family of Dr. Allen, and Dr. Allen, for so unselfishly giving of yourselves to others. Patsy A., Raleigh, N.C.
Glenda Leggett
March 15, 2012
Dear Family,
To hear this about Dr. Allen just breaks my heart. He was my doctor and saved my life on 12-5-2001. I had a brain tumor and he was my surgeon. I am so very sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you.
Dianna Johnson Thomas
March 13, 2012
Dr. Allen was responsible for allowing my mother many more years of pain free living by performing back surgery in the mid-70s. She always had praises for him for his skill, kindness and compassion and recommended him many times to family & friends. Our thoughts and prayers for the family.
Barbara Allen
March 13, 2012
Dr. Allen was a great person and doctor. My husband passed away in 2003 but always had kind words to say, he really was a great man. God Bless! Allen Family
C. Dayton Kirk, M.D.
March 13, 2012
Dr. Allen was possibly the most talented neurosurgeon I ever had the pleasure to work with on my arrival from Chapel Hill in 1977 until his retirement. As an anesthesiologist I provided service for his numerous surgical patients. I chose him to do my own cervical spine surgery which speaks for my faith in his ability. In the operating room he was soft spoken, confident, always controlled, wasted few words, and was loved by the entire staff. A great man is gone.
Dale McDuffie
March 11, 2012
Dear Judy,
As close as I know you are with your family, I know this is a very sad time for you and your family. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Your friends from Gates County are praying for you and your loved ones. God keep you safe and ease your sadness. Much love and sympathy, Dale McDuffie, Gatesville,NC.
Ester Yates
March 11, 2012
DR Allen a very great doctor,with a caring,comparable for his patients.A bright star in heaven will shine for him.We bless to have his son to fellow in his foot steps.Our Prayers,Thoughts,and love is with all his family.
Sherry Whitman
March 10, 2012
My condolences to the Allen family. Dr. Allen was a wonderful surgeon. I enjoyed working with him.
Jean West
March 10, 2012
Dr. LeRoy Allen was an exceptional gifted neurosurgeon and man .Celebrate a life well lived knowing he was one of a kind
and did things his way. i enjoyed working with him until he retired.
March 10, 2012
It is with deep sadness that I have learned of Dr. Allen's passing. My heart goes out to Gloria and the family. I will always treasure having known him and especially all he meant in my son Rick's life. He took him under his wing as a young man and patiently taught him to love the things he loved and cared for so much. My heartfelt sympathy. Marlene Neisler
Marlene Neisler
March 10, 2012
It is with deep sadness that I have learned of Dr. Allen's passing. My heart goes out to Gloria and the family. I will always treasure having known him and especially all he meant in my son Rick's life. He took him under his wing as a young man and patiently taught him to love the things he loved and cared for so much. My heartfelt sympathy. Marlene Neisler
Gerald Smith
March 10, 2012
After several years of lower back pain, in 1980 I entered Dr.Allen's office and he gave me several moves to make. Then without an Xray or further exam he said he could fix my back. He removed some calcium deposits on a vertebra and my pain was gone when I awoke.Eternal thanks,Dr.Allen.
March 10, 2012
Dear "Allen Family" (et al),
I would like to express my condolences to you on the passing of Brother Allen. Though we were merely aquainted through the Masonic Lodge HIram 40(I am much his junior), Dr. Allen's character, reputation; his professional leadership and skills, were a great example to his peers, his Masonic Brethern, and his community.
Indeed, "Well done, good and faithful servant"....
Sincerely,
Jason E. B. Williams {Son of Dr. Ronald H. and Mrs. Lana S. Williams}
Raleigh NC
Pam Hyatt
March 10, 2012
We are sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you!! Dr. LeRoy operated on my dad's brain aneurysm in 1985 and Dad is still doing well. We are SO thankful for Dr. LeRoy's knowledge! He will always have a special place in our hearts as well! The Bob Harrington Family
Sandy Bridgers
March 10, 2012
Dr. LeRoy (as I called him in the hospital) was one of the greatest men I have ever known. He could always make me smile and have a better day if things were not going well. When I had my daughter the Clinician ask people not to visit me because I had a long, hard birth. Later that night I heard a knock on the door and Dr. LeRoy came in to check and see how I was doing. He said that Clinician didn't scare him. Made me laugh and feel a little better. It was sweet and something I have never forgotten nor will I ever. He was an exceptional surgeon as well as an exceptional person. I will always be thankful to have had the pleasure to know him
Diane Becton
March 10, 2012
Matthew 25:23 "His master replied, well done good and faithful servant..." we love you Dr Leroy!
Paul, Diane, Dr Tom Gupton and Helen Gupton and all of our children
Dr. Allen was an extremely important part of our family!!!
Capt. Gregg Penley
March 9, 2012
Deep remorse.Dr. Leroy made our world a better place. Rest in peace Leroy. You will be greatly missed.
Bootsie Harris
March 9, 2012
Robert and Celeste and family, he was such a great guy, and I know you will miss him terribly. You are all in my thoughts.
Bootsie
March 9, 2012
No only my friend but Doc was my saving grace when I lost a finger 75 miles off shore, June 5, 1973 during the Big Rock. He repaired my back in 1985 and remained a friend through out the years. Both my wife and I will surely miss Capt. LeRoy. Our deepest sympathy to the family of a truly amazing man of whom it was our privilege to know. God Bless you Doc. Lee and Linda Styron
Ken Horton
March 9, 2012
Nutech Spine will make a contribution to Hospice of Wake County in honor of Dr. LeRoy Allen. Please accept our sincere condolences!
Sandy Rickabaugh
March 9, 2012
Though I never had the privilege of knowing Dr. Allen, I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to his family, especially his nephew, Keith Askew, who I know will be mourning his uncle deeply, yet remembering their times together fishing with great joy. Love to you and your family Keith!
Kenny&Bernice Hill
March 9, 2012
Doc.as known to most became our friend as well I am to have known and call Doc a friend Our thought and prayers goes with the family
JoAnne Massey
March 9, 2012
Dr.Leroy was a very special person and a GREAT doctor.I had the honor
of working with him for many years at Wake Med. He treated all of his patients with dignity and respect. He also treated his nurses the same way. When one of the nurses was killed on her way to work one morning he cried with the rest of us and attended her funeral. Not many doctors would have done that. He will be missed. Sally and family you are in my prayers.
JoAnne Massey,RN
Howard Basnight
March 9, 2012
A true pioneer in offshore fishing who inspired a generation of boat captains. Many fond memories of fishing with Doc and Big Al in the late 70's and 80's.
C R Sorrell
March 9, 2012
He was a wonderful DOCTOR and a wonderful man ... Fond memories of him as he was with us during very hard times with our son. Loving prayers to his family are being said.
Dr Don & Judy Reibel
March 9, 2012
LeRoy took me under his wings when I began Orthopedic practice in Raleigh--as a friend, mentor , guide and counselor. He taught many of his skills both in the OR and the intricacies of construction techniques, and indeed of his beloved offshore fishing, Of which I will always be grateful. His love of nature was infectious to others. He was indeed a great man who will surely be missed. Dr.Don Reibel, Judy, Jon, Jamie and Jeff Reibel.
March 9, 2012
If Dr called you a friend he was there whenever you called, so many great days on the ocean with a wonderful man. I visited him March 6th 2012 we talked of the many days in the ocean the blue marlin's we caught. I shook his hand when I left saying goodby to a true friend I will never forget that smile on his face when I left.
Captn Pete Manuel
Dida Parrott
March 9, 2012
This is the passing of a legend. You are all in my thoughts and prayers and your comfort will be in each other.
The Carrs
March 9, 2012
A great man has left us. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and community. "Ever Forward" Doc.
Pete, Janet and Garrett Carr, Raleigh, NC
Pete Carr
March 9, 2012
A great man has left us. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and community. "Ever Forward" Doc.
Pete, Janet and Garrett Carr, Raleigh, NC
March 9, 2012
A wonderful doctor that I will never forget. I am so sorry to hear this. RIP Dr. Allen. My prayers to the family. Joyce Bass Raleigh NC
March 9, 2012
In December of 1989 I could not function with the pain in my back. Dr. Leroy gave me a "magic injection" to get me thru the holidays. In January of 1990 he did surgery to correct my problem and by God's grace and thru Dr. Leroy I could walk again! Several of my family members have gone to him and he worked his wonderful knowledge to help us all. He will be remembered as the greatest back doctor of all times! May the memories and love of your family carry you thru the days ahead and may we all see Dr. Leroy again one day where there will be no pain or suffering. God Bless you.
Gail Weeks, Little River, SC
Chaplain Richard Reuer
March 9, 2012
I wish to extend to you and to members of your family my deepest sympathy on your loss. May the Lord's loving promises comfort you and give you strength as you walk through this difficult time.
"HONORING THOSE WHO SERVED"-MINISTRY
Chaplain Richard Reuer
1206 6th St SW
Minot, ND 58701
Diane Becton
March 8, 2012
What a great man!! Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. He was like a brother to my dad and he will be greatly missed. Diane Gupton Becton, Paul Becton, Paul Wesley Becton Jr, Thomas Becton and Catherine Becton
FROM THE FAMILY
IN THE CARE OF