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About James Gregory Allen

James Gregory Allen, 15, died Sunday June 22, 2008 while enjoying his life outdoors. Greg knew how to live. He loved unconditionally, he was compassionate, and he took every chance he could to have fun and make others laugh until their sides hurt. Greg was a rising sophomore at Athens Drive High School. He dreamed of attending North Carolina State University to study engineering.

From an early age, Greg decided his “real” home was in the Smoky Mountains.  He was happiest in the woods, near water. His good times included camping and hiking with family and friends, building trails and mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, and exploring. He looked forward to many other adventures this summer and in coming years.

Greg had a kind and brave heart. It was second nature for him to be a loyal friend, wonderful brother, and delightful son. His faith was strong and a focal point in his life. He was particularly close to friends at school and in his youth group and scouts at Saint Francis United Methodist church. He had just returned from a rewarding mission trip with the Appalachia Service Project in West Virginia.

We offer thanks to Greg’s good friend and physician Dr. James Rene’ Herlong of Levine Children’s Hospital and Dr. James Jaggers and the entire staff of Duke Children’s Hospital for their care over the years. Thanks also to teachers and other adults who were a part of Greg’s life.  

The family has established the Greg Allen Memorial Fund at the Triangle Community Foundation to support charitable activities reflective of Greg’s personality and interests. Checks should be made to the Triangle Community Foundation with Greg Allen Memorial Fund in the note section and mailed to Triangle Community Foundation, 324 Blackwell Street, Suite 1220, Durham, NC 27701.