It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Michael “Mike” Allen, 75, of Belville, North Carolina. Mike was born December 20, 1949, son of the late William Austin Allen and Frances P. Allen. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 30, 2025.
Mike was a man who dedicated his life to service in every sense of the word. Known for wearing many hats including Retired Command Sergeant Major, Captain, and Mayor, Mike Allen left an indelible mark on his community, his country, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Command Sergeant Major Allen retired from the United States Army after more than 30 years of faithful and honorable service in both the Army and Army Reserve. His military career was marked by leadership, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to those he served alongside.
In his role as Captain Allen, he continued his legacy of service as a deputy sheriff with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, where he oversaw the reserve deputy staff. His 44 years in law enforcement, which included time with the Southport Police Department, reflected his deep-rooted dedication to protecting and serving others.
To many, he was also Mayor Allen, the respected and steadfast mayor of the Town of Belville since 2012. As mayor, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his constituents, advocating for clean water, historical preservation, recreational spaces, and educational opportunities. His visionary leadership has helped shape Belville into a vibrant and forward-looking community.
Throughout his life, Mayor Allen received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the highest honors granted by the governor of North Carolina. He also served as the town’s representative on the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) with the Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (WMPO).
Mike Allen’s life was a testament to service, leadership, and integrity. Whether wearing the uniform of a soldier, the badge of a deputy, or the mantle of a mayor, he led with heart, vision, and an unwavering sense of duty.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara Allen; a step-son, Chris Edwards; a son, Jason Allen and wife Alanna; two grandsons, Trent Michael Allen and wife Maggie, and Braxton Zale Allen and wife Jordan; a great-grandson to be born in January 2026, Holden Michael Allen; a sister, Linda Honeycutt; and a brother, Jimmy Allen and wife Diane.
A celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 5, in the Odell Williamson Auditorium on the campus of Brunswick Community College. The family will receive friends after the service at the auditorium. He will be buried in the New Hollywood Cemetery in Lumberton at a date and time to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Belville Riverwalk Veterans’ Memorial, c/o Town of Belville, 497 Olde Waterford Way, Suite 200, Belville, NC 28451.
Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com
Obituary provided by Peacock — Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service.
