Ralph Denver Allen

   Ralph Denver Allen, 66, of Hobbsville, NC, passed away on Thursday, December 8, 2016 in Sentara Heart Hospital, Norfolk, VA, where he was surrounded by loved ones.

   Mr. Allen lived life to the fullest till the end. A retired commercial truck driver, he enjoyed fishing, helping others in many different ways, and spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister-in-law, Della Allen.

   Surviving are his only daughter, Cheryl Pureza (Carl) of Elizabeth City; a granddaughter, Allison; his brother, Daughtry Allen of Hertford; a sister, Gertrude Harrell (Robert) of Edenton; and seven nieces, a nephew and their families, all of whom will miss him dearly as well.

   Also surviving are his longtime companion of 37 years, Kathy Brickhouse of Portsmouth, VA; three step-children, Deborah, Mike, and Wendy; eight step-grandchildren; and 12 step-great grandchildren.

   Funeral services will be held Sunday at 2:00 p.m. in Sandy Cross Baptist Church, and will be officiated by Pastors Gary Nistler and Jay Rivenbark. A private burial will follow in the Eason Family Cemetery. Friends may join the family Saturday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. in Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, and again in the church social hall immediately following the service on Sunday.

   In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any chapter of the American Heart Association.

  Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.