Thomas Odell Allred

Thomas Odell Allred, of Wilmington, NC, returned to our Lord on October 16th after a brief illness.

Born on June 16th 1943, Tom was the son of Odell and Julia Allred. He grew up in Asheboro and graduated from Asheboro High School in 1961 and later, Elon College. During college, he met his true love, Bobbie Dianne Andrews and they married in 1966. They enjoyed nearly 60 years of marriage together and raised their two children in Asheboro.

Tom enjoyed a successful sales career in several industries and spent some time in New York City working in the Empire State Building. Of note, he was in lower Manhattan the morning of 9/11, an event that left a lasting impression on him and an abiding love for our country. He was an avid reader and a student of American history. He was the quintessential baby boomer who loved the music and culture from his era.

Blessed with incredible charm and friendliness, Tom was also known for his neat and dapper appearance. He made friends easily and was loved deeply by his family.

In recent years Tom showed immense grit and resilience by caring for his wife who suffered with Alzheimer’s Disease. He was an inspiration and role model for his family and other caregivers facing similar difficulties. In recent years he moved to Wilmington, NC to be closer to his daughter.

During the course of his lifetime, Tom was an enthusiastic parishioner at several local churches, most notably Asheboro Friends Meeting and Central United Methodist Church.

Lovingly called “Poppy” by his grandchildren, he will be remembered as a devoted father and grandfather. Tom is predeceased by his mother Julia (2019) and father, Odell (1953). His wife, Dianne, predeceased him in 2024 and he never quite recovered from her absence. While Tom’s passing has been heartbreaking, there is much comfort in knowing he has been reunited in heaven with his beloved Dianne.

Tom will be greatly missed by his daughter Candace Wehr (Peter) of Wilmington and son Jonathan Allred (Sarah) of Asheville. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Isaac, Lee, Nate, Bennett and Elizabeth Ann. The family wishes to express their gratitude to friends who supported Tom with their kindness. A Memorial Service in his honor will be held at Pugh Funeral Home on October 24th at 2:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 1:00 PM.