David Wayne Allen, 91, passed away February 25, 2026, at his home in Shelby, NC.

Born in Cleveland County on December 26, 1934, he was the son of the late David Rufus Allen and Kathleen Dedmon Allen.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Bennie, Aaron, and Rufus Allen, his son-in-law, Robin Blanton; his previous wife, Shirley Allen.

A hardworking and determined man, he built his livelihood in the automobile industry, buying and selling used auto parts and vehicles. His love of cars extended to owning race cars and spending countless hours at auctions, where he enjoyed the thrill of the find. He also invested in real estate, applying the same dedication and practical sense that defined his life's work. He had a special fondness for his animals, especially his cats and goats, which brought him quiet companionship and daily joy.

Wayne is survived by his four children, Jane Gordon (Danny), Ken Allen (Sheila), Sherry Blanton, and Jerry Allen (Leslie); ten grandchildren, Nikki Enge (Brian), Ashley Crain (Tim), Jana Goss (Troy), Kesha Ruppe (Matthew), Amanda Melton (Clint), Dr. Kenneth Allen, Jr. (Brannon), Sarah-Jane Fitch, Emily Fitch, Taylor Allen (Sarah Frye), and Brooke Houser (Zeke); and great-grandchildren, Ava Enge, Zoe Enge, Cole Crain, Bryson Crain, Troy Goss, Jr., Tyson Goss, Tenley Goss, Mason Ruppe, Marshall Ruppe, Murphy Ruppe, Cora Melton, Cade Melton, Zeb Houser, and Mak Houser. He is also survived by his previous wife Linda, half brothers, John, and Bruce Allen, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and his work family.

Also left to cherish his memory are his companion, Pat Collins; special friends, Patricia Seagle, Art Oats, and Randy Gant.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to his caregivers, who were like family: Ruby, Tabitha, Silvia, and Maddison.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Ross Grove Baptist Church, with Rev. Marcus McGill officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM in the church sanctuary and other times at the home of Ken and Sheila Allen. Burial will follow the service in the church cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in his memory to Ross Grove Baptist Church, Attn: Building Fund, 1225 Fallston Road, Shelby, NC 28150.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family.