Ralph Junior Allen

Ralph J. Allen, age 77, transitioned from his earthly journey on October 12, 2016 surrounded by his wife and daughters.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 54 years, Patsy Johnson Allen; daughters, Angie Correll (Mark), Debbie Pruett (Jeff) and Lisa Duvall (Dale). Ralph was the proud papaw to Kayla Duvall Cox (Jesse), Matthew Pruett, Corey Duvall, Hayley Pruett Clay (Ben), Logan Pruett, Eilee, and the great‑papaw of Loui and Noni Clay and Lillian Cox as well as 19 foster grandchildren.

The son of the late Eva and Thomas Allen, Ralph was born in Macon County and grew up in Cowee Valley. Ralph was part of a large family that included brothers Furman (deceased), Lloyd (deceased), Grady and John; sisters, Ollie Mae Hurst (deceased), Ruby Poindexter, Sue McConnell and Linda Passmore. Ralph is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Ralph retired from the NCDOT as a Highway Maintenance Supervisor after 30 years' service and was the former owner of Franklin Fence Company. Ralph was known in the community as the "Lawnmower Man" and he was an avid Tar heels basketball fan.

Ralph faced the battle with cancer with courage and faith. Ralph proudly proclaimed his faith as a Christian; today we know that Ralph has attained the ultimate final resting place with his Heavenly Father, parents and siblings. One of Ralph's last requests of his friends and family was to "tell someone about Jesus every day".

Family and friends will hold a celebration of Ralph's life on Sunday, October 16th at 3:00 pm in the chapel of Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home and Crematory with Rev. Jason Smith, Rev. Danny Holland and Rev. Lyndon Biddix officiating. The family will greet friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Upper Room Ministries ‑ Please designate New Beginnings Baptist Mission November Team as Ralph's grandson Matthew is following his wish to share Jesus' love and will be participating in this trip.  Donations may be mailed to:  Danny Pyatt ‑ 164 May Apple Lane ‑ Franklin, NC 28734 or Joey Gibson ‑ 100 Holbrook Drive ‑ Franklin, NC 28734

Bryant‑Grant Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Allen family. Online condolences are available at bryantgrantfuneralhome.com.