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.