Ralph F. Allen Sr., 64


Ralph Franklin Allen Sr., 64, of Grottoes, passed away Sunday, July 26, 2009, at his home after a courageous batter with cancer.

Ralph was born in Rockingham County, on May 21, 1945, and was a son of the late Leon and Kathleen (McInturff) Allen.

He worked at Cargill in Dayton as a maintenance man, and was a member of the Ray of Hope Pentecostal Church in Harrisonburg.

On Nov. 30, 1966, he was united in marriage to Shirley (Via) Allen, who survives.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Terry Allen of Greenville, and Sherry Allen of Grottoes; a son, Ralph “Sporty” Allen Jr. of McGaheysville; two sisters, Betty Holloway of McGaheysville, and Pearl Voiles of Knoxville, Tenn.; three brothers, Lester Allen of Grottoes, Carl Allen of Waynesboro, and Chester Allen of Elkton. He also is survived by one grandson, Aaron Curtis Allen; two great-nieces, English and Anna Jackson; and one special cousin, Donald Whalen.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by two brothers, Harry Allen Sr. and Fred Allen; and three sisters, Janet Dean, Edna Crawford, and Patty Deavers.

A funeral service will be conducted 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at Johnson Funeral Service in Grottoes, with the Rev. James Kite officiating. Burial will follow at Port Republic Mutual Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 28, 2009, at the funeral home, or any time at the home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grottoes Fire Department, PO Box 67, Grottoes, VA 24441 or Grottoes Rescue Squad, PO Box 1187, Grottoes, VA 24441.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.Johnsonfs.com.