Robert Wilson Allen, Jr., “Dr. Bob,” beloved husband, father, grandpa, pediatrician/neonatologist, moved to his heavenly home on Monday, February 5, 2024. In his final days, he was surrounded by his loving family who held his hand until his final breath.
Born September 29, 1944 to Robert Wilson Allen and Helen Inge Allen, he was raised in Charlottesville and Portsmouth. Bob graduated from Wilson High School in Portsmouth, attended University of Richmond, Medical College of Virginia and University of Utah. In the Army he served for 3 years in Bremerhaven, Germany. He settled with his family in Botetourt County in 1980 to practice neonatology and retired from Carilion/Pediatrix in 2009.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Benjamin Inge Allen, and grandson, Andrew Christian Allen.
Bob is survived by the love of his life, Margaret Anne Whitley Allen to whom he was married for 56 years; his daughter, Ginny Barkett (Erryn), and their children, Anne Chappell McAllister (Caleb), Will, Abe and Olivia; and his son, Rob Allen (Kathleen), and their children, Robert (Austin), Caroline, Mary Catherine and Charlie; his sister, Ann Smith; sister-in-law, Carolyn Allen; brother-in-law, Ernest Whitely (Kathy); and many special nieces, nephews and cousins.
Those who knew Bob loved him and he made a difference in the lives of not only his family, but his community and the world. He was an encouraging, compassionate doctor working alongside a strong team of NICU nurses who sent countless babies home so they could grow up. Others knew him as “Dr Bob” as he taught Sunday School, ministered on mission trips, prayed with inmates in prison, read to kindergarteners, and served as an advocate for children. He was active in the Gideons, Kiwanis and WRE.
As “Farmer Bob,” he loved farm life, hunting, teaching his grandchildren, and being with his family.
A Celebration of Life will be Saturday, February 17 at 1 p.m. at Bonsack Baptist Church, with reception following. A Columbarium Service will be Saturday, April 13 at 3:30 p.m. at the University of Richmond, with reception following.
Bob’s favorite color was red and we invite you to wear red.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to: Bonsack Baptist Church (Missions), 4845 Cloverdale Road, Roanoke, 24019; Gideons Botetourt Camp, P.O. Box 135, Daleville, 24083 or The Glebe (Benevolent Fund), 200 The Glebe Boulevard, Daleville, 24083.
Arrangements are by Oakey’s East Chapel and Crematory, 540-977-3909.
