Allan Metcalf

Allan wrote the declaration of independence from the "tyranny" of teachers, creating the School Children of America. It was 4th grade. SCOA was only 4th grade boys at lab, and never included fast runners, who formed the KTA. SCOA ran, in a group, after fast runners at recess, but we never caught up. I guess there would continue to be teachers, and I know Allan, himself, was, even in 4th grade, one of the best.

The world has lost a special person. May you find peace in your cherished memories.

Dr. Metcalf was one of my favorite professors at MacMurray, and I am very sad to hear of his passing. He had such a passion for words that overflowed into the students he taught. I still love words and look up word origins to this day, remembering him every time I do. I was fortunate to spend even more time in his company when I started some part-time work to help him with secretarial duties for the American Dialect Society. His pithy and dry humor always made him a complete joy to be...

Dr. Metcalf was my favorite prof at MacMurray for Honors Rhetoric and, in particular, for his course in Linguistics. It was always a treat to read about him in newspaper or magazine article discussing his books on the English language. How fortunate were we that he devoted his professional life to MacMurray College and to the town of Jacksonville. My condolences to the family and may he rest in peace.

Dr. Metcalf was the Registrar when I began at MacMurray College, and he was such a pleasure to work with. I am incredibly saddened to hear of his passing; my condolences to his family.

Allan was an ardent supporter of and publicist for the Dictionary of American Regional English (DARE). A gift in his memory has been given to the project. Members of the American Dialect Society, the Dictionary Society of North America, and the staff of DARE all mourn his loss. He was a fine friend and colleague.

Joan Houston Hall, Chief Editor Emerita, DARE

We appreciate the kind condolences for the loss our father. When my brother and I visited my dad over 2 years ago, soon after he moved into a full-time care facility, he drew our attention to 2 literary passages.

First, from Shakespeare, Romeo & Juliet:
He jests at scars that never felt a wound.

Second, From Emily Dickinson:

The Heart asks Pleasure - First -
And then - Excuse from Pain -
And then - those little Anodynes -
That deaden...

Dr. Metcalf was one of a kind. There´s not many like him left. I´m so thankful I got to know him. What a life well lived!

Dr. Metcalf was truly a standout educator and gentleman. Prayers for the family