Jerry E. Allen, of Manteo, died September 20, 2019 at the age of 81.

He was born in Aynor, SC and after finishing high school and Spartanburg Junior College, he enrolled in the University of South Carolina where he played baseball and met his future wife Libby Jane Hinson of Charlotte. A draft cut shortened his time as a Gamecock and for two years he served in the United States Army at Fort Jackson where his first child Lisa was born.

A few towns and jobs later, he was hired as the Parks and Recreation director of Forest City. From there he applied to be the first Parks and Recreation director of Elizabeth City and was hired. During his tenure with Elizabeth City, he also served as interim city manager at different times. He left Elizabeth City to become the first Camden County manager. He then returned to become the Director of Public Housing. After about 30 years in Pasquotank County, he took the position of Dare County Parks and Recreation director and relocated to Dare County.

He was involved in civic organizations including Jaycees and the Rotary Club and was named man of the year by the Jaycees and VFW.

Survivors include wife Libby Allen; son Chad Allen; grandsons Colby and Luke; daughter Lisa Allen Heath; grandson Christian; granddaughter Madison; and a great-granddaughter.

A celebration of life service will be held at 7 p.m. on September 27 at Manteo First Assembly of God.

Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories can be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.

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