William Gerald Allen

William Gerald Allen, age 94, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away on March 29, 2026, after a long and well-lived life. Born on December 2, 1931, in Asheville, North Carolina, Gerald, as he preferred to be called, was the son of Bert and Kathleen Allen. He had one sister, Mary Ann Allen, who preceded him in death in 2013. He also has one brother, Dick Hoffman, who is with us today. Gerald and his sister were raised by their mother and her parents, R.B. White and Hattie Reynolds, in Asheville. In 1956, Gerald married the love of his life, Nancy Allison, and together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and quiet generosity. Soon after their marriage, they moved to Charlotte, where they would spend the rest of their lives together. In 1963, they built their family home in northeast Charlotte, where Nancy continues to reside, a place filled with decades of cherished memories. Gerald and Nancy were married for 72 loving years. Gerald began his career as a truck driver and, through dedication and perseverance, rose through the ranks. He worked for a family business, then the Olin Corporation, and ultimately Carbonic Industries Corporation (CIC), where he spent the majority of his 48-year career. Over the years, he served in roles ranging from driver and serviceman to salesman, and ultimately, regional sales manager. He was deeply respected by colleagues and valued by customers for his reliability, integrity, and steady presence. He retired after a long and fulfilling career of 48 years. Gerald and Nancy raised four children, Greg (Marcia), Carla (Randy), Robin (Melanie) and Mark (Kimberly), instilling in them the values of hard work, curiosity, and commitment. All four are married and have families of their own. Together, Gerald and Nancy were blessed with five grandchildren, Cameron, Jennifer, Caitlyn, David, and Mildred, and three great-grandchildren, Dakota, Waylon, and Sawyer. Gerald took great pride in supporting his children and grandchildren in all their pursuits, from sports and academics to hobbies, automotive interests, motocross, and Scouting, including two Eagle Scouts. Outside of work, Gerald was rarely idle. He loved working with his hands and could often be found in his well-equipped garage, where it seemed there was nothing he couldn’t fix or build. He and Nancy also cherished their time at Emerald Isle, North Carolina, where they spent many summers over the decades. They both were very active in the Parents Teachers Association. Gerald also spent a week of vacation every summer helping out the troops at Boy Scout camp. Gerald had a love for travel, especially throughout the Southeast. Whether exploring the mountains or the coast, visiting forts and lighthouses, or stopping at museums and flea markets, he never passed up an opportunity to discover something new. He especially enjoyed the journey; driving, exploring, and taking the time to appreciate the world around him. He lived his life with quiet kindness and steady generosity. Gerald was always ready to lend a hand, often before being asked. Whether it was cutting a neighbor’s lawn, clearing storm debris, helping during difficult times, or simply showing up when needed, he was dependable in the truest sense. He never sought recognition or thanks; helping others was simply who he was. Even in conversation, Gerald showed his character. When he disagreed, he often responded with a gentle smile and a simple, “Is that right?” He led by example, choosing humility, patience, and quiet strength over words. Gerald’s presence was constant but never overwhelming, his silence meaningful, and his kindness unwavering. Above all, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a trusted friend, and a man whose actions spoke louder than words. His passing is truly a celebration of a life well lived. A celebration of life and graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at Green Hills Cemetery in Asheville, NC.

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William Gerald Allen

December 2, 1931 - March 29, 2026