Obituaries

Douglas Michael Allen, 79, of Martinsville, Virginia, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. He was born on January 19, 1946, to the late Walter Harvey Allen and Doris Wells Allen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Loretta Allen.

Douglas was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother whose life was centered around faith, family, and service. He was a dedicated and committed follower of Jesus Christ. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren, who brought him great joy. He loved and was devoted to his wife, Loretta, to whom he was married for nearly 60 years.

Douglas enjoyed a long and dedicated career in the printing industry, later sharing his expertise for many years as a vocational education teacher at Bassett High School. He took great pride in his work and in the lasting impact he made on the lives of his students.

He is survived by his son, R. Michael Allen (Jill); his daughter, Penny Williams (Max); five grandchildren, Hunter, Erin, Jared, Lauren, and Sydney; two brothers, Glenn Allen (Patricia) and Carroll "Shorty" Allen; and four sisters, Janet Merricks, Betty Fleming, Hazel Allen, and Kathy Grice (Fred), along with a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Bassett Funeral Service Chapel. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at the County Line Christian Church Cemetery.

The family appreciates all expressions of sympathy and kindness shown during this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the County Line Christian Church Cemetery Fund, 12711 Chatham Road Axton, Virginia 24054.

Bassett Funeral Service is honored to serve the Allen family.