William P. Allen Sr.

Pat was born on April 17, 1938, in Wilmington, North Carolina, to William (Paul) Allen and Jean Allen. A lifelong Wilmington resident, he attended local schools and graduated from New Hanover High School in 1957. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard for two years.

After completing his military service, Pat returned home and enrolled at Wilmington College, now the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where he met the love of his life, Jo Ellen P. Allen. They were married and shared 64 wonderful years together. Together they transferred to the University of South Carolina, where they both completed their college educations.

Pat and Jo returned to Wilmington, where Pat began a successful 30-year career as a stockbroker. He retired in 1997, eagerly embracing what he often considered his second career—spending countless days fishing and hunting, pursuits that brought him great joy and peace throughout his retirement.

Pat is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Jo Ellen P. Allen; his daughter, Amy Allen Maultsby and her husband, Gary, of Wilmington, North Carolina; his son, Wil Allen, of Seward, Alaska; and his three beloved grandchildren, Garrison Maultsby of Raleigh, North Carolina, Chase Maultsby of Wilmington, North Carolina, and Caroline Maultsby and her fiancé, Ren Millis, of Wilmington, North Carolina.

He is also survived by his brothers, Karl Allen of Wilmington, North Carolina, and Jean A. Allen of Goldsboro, North Carolina, along with several cherished nieces and nephews.

Pat also leaves behind two very special friends, Robert and Pam Cherry of Cedar Island, North Carolina, whose friendship became like family. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Cherrys for the love, kindness, and unwavering friendship they shared with Pat over the years. Their care and devotion meant more than words can express.

Pat will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering work ethic, love of the outdoors, and the deep devotion he had for his family and friends. Whether on the water, in the woods, or surrounded by those he loved, he found joy in life's simple pleasures. His legacy of integrity, kindness, and love will live on in all who knew him.

A celebration of Pat's life will be held from 3:00pm to 5:00pm Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at the Carolina Yacht Club, 401 S. Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare (formerly Lower Cape Fear Hospice) at Lifecare.org in grateful appreciation for the compassionate care and support they so graciously provided to Pat and his family during his final days.