Earl Gibson Allen, age 81, of Lumberton, NC died at his residence on Friday, January 28, 2011. He was born in Robeson County, NC on January 25, 1930 to the late Thomas Allen, Sr. and Celia Jane Sessoms Allen. He is a veteran of the United States Air Force. He worked as a self-employed farmer and carpenter. He loved his family, country and community and served them all with loving hands. Mr. Allen is the oldest member of the Lumber River Old Iron and Tractor Club, one of the founding fathers of East Howellsville Fire Department and a member of various hunting clubs.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Celia Jane Sessoms Allen, Sr. and a brother, Thomas ??Junior? Allen, Jr.

Mr. Allen is survived by his wife of fifty-three years, Peggy R. Allen of the home; a son, Ronnie E. Allen and wife Sandra of Lumberton, NC; a daughter, Tammy Allen Britt and husband Randy of Orrum, NC; three sisters, Alma Cain, Jimmie Lou Nichols and Betty Hall Robinson all of Lumberton, NC; and two grandchildren, Molli Britt and Zachary Britt.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 5:00 PM at Zion Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Worth Gerald, Rev. Charles Brust and Rev. Leroy Burke officiating. A time for visitation will follow in the church fellowship hall.