Mr. Billy Jean Allen, 77, of the Brian Center in Gastonia, NC celebrated his birthday this year in heaven on Wednesday, September 18, 2013 at Gaston Memorial Hospital in Gastonia, NC.  He was born on September 18, 1936 in Cherokee County, SC to the late Clara Allen and was her first born of ten children.

Billy was a member of Ramseur Baptist Church.  He loved being able to work and be paid for it.  He was a people person and loved when he attended church to lead hymns.

In addition to his mother he was preceded in death by a sister, Eunice A. Goforth and a brother, Henry Allen.

He is survived by two brothers, James Edward Allen (Ruth) of Drew MS and Bobby Gene Allen of Vineland, NJ; five sisters, Mary Jo Allen of Gaffney, SC, Shirley Ann Allen of Millville, NJ, Diane Ross and Janice Allen both of Shelby and Sadie Haney-Morgan (Rufus) of Gaffney, SC and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services have been changed to Monday, September 23, 2013 at 3:00 PM at Ramseur Baptist Church with Rev. Billy Ramseur officiating and Rev. James Allen delivering the eulogy.  Burial will take place at the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 2:30 until 3:00 PM at the church on Monday and at other times at the 1314 Frederick St in Shelby.  Condolences can be expressed online at www.enloes.net.  Enloe Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements.