Virgil Lee Allen

Virgil Lee Allen, 70, of Swannanoa, slipped away to join his bride in Heaven on Sunday, April 27, 2014. Virgil was born on Bolens Creek at the old Allen homeplace in the Pensacola area of Yancey County, to the late James Earl Allen and Ruby Phillips Pruitt. Virgil was the husband and soul-mate of the late Charlotte Elaine Young Allen. He is also preceded in death by his brother Ellwood Allen and sister Sondra Allen. He leaves behind his three beloved children, Nancy Allen Nesbitt (Chad) of Leicester, Virgil Gregory Allen of Swannanoa, and Melissa Allen Lord (Carl) of Swannanoa. He also leaves behind his four grandchildren whom he loved with his whole heart, Savannah Nesbitt, Emilee Lord, Zebulan Lord and Lydia Allen. Virgil is also survived by serveral brothers and a sister, Russell Allen (Shelby) of Old Fort, Zelma Jo Waldrop of Leicester, Lewis Allen (Genivie) of Black Mountain, Hoyt Pruitt (Jean) of Mountain Home, and Arthur Allen (Kathy) of Old Fort, as well as numerous nephews and nieces. Virgil was a mountain man in the truest sense. The laurel thickets, green moss, and winding rivers of these mountains were the only home he ever knew. They were a part of him and he will forever remain a part of them. A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at Parkway Baptist Church, where he was a member. Rev. Randall Young will officiate. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service. Flowers are appreciated or donations may be made to Grandfather Home for Children, Banner Elk, NC, 28604, or to Care Partners Palliative Care, P.O. Box 25338, Asheville, NC, 28813. Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road is assisting the family.