Allen W. Wood III

1951 - 2024

Allen W. Wood III

December 3, 1951 - December 12, 2024

Allen Wilton Wood III, a beloved partner, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully after a serious illness on December 12, 2024, at the age of 73. Born on December 3, 1951, in Fayetteville, NC, he was the son of the late Allen Wilton Wood, Jr. and Jeanne Shiel Wood.

Allen grew up in Raeford, NC, where he was an active member of Raeford First Baptist Church, participating in church activities every Sunday and Wednesday. A dedicated and hardworking young man, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, worked summers in the tobacco fields, and spent Saturdays and holidays at a local grocery store. He excelled in academics and extracurriculars at Hoke County High School, where he participated in football, track, student government, and numerous clubs, all while cultivating his love of music under the guidance of his mother. Notably, Allen served as a page for U.S. Senator Sam Ervin, marking the beginning of his lifelong commitment to public service.

Graduating with distinction in 1970, Allen received the prestigious Carswell Scholarship to attend Wake Forest University, where he majored in Political Science and graduated with honors in 1974. He earned his Juris Doctor degree with honors from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1977 and was admitted to the North Carolina Bar that same year.

Allen built a respected career in law, practicing in Newton, NC, for nearly five decades. Known for his expertise in bankruptcy, foreclosures, debt relief, and contracts, he earned a reputation as a thoughtful and compassionate advocate. Over the years, he served his community on numerous boards, including the Catawba County Board of Elections, the Green Room Community Theatre, the Catawba County Council for the Arts, and ALFA, where his leadership left a lasting impact.

Allen's life was enriched by his deep love for the arts, his dedication to justice, and his commitment to helping others. He was a kind and intelligent soul who touched the lives of many with his generosity and warmth. Allen and Ken, his life partner of almost 30 years, shared a beautiful life together, dedicated to serving the community, traveling the globe, and spending quality time with friends and family. Their partnership brought joy to those around them, leaving a legacy of love, laughter, and meaningful connections.

Allen is survived by his life partner, Ken Wilkinson; and Ken's son, Trevor Martin. He is also survived by his ex-wife, Cynthia Corriher Wood; his son, Mark Corriher Wood of Hickory; his daughter, Anne Elizabeth Wood Gilley (Thomas Creed Gilley, Jr.); and his cherished grandchildren, Thomas Creed Gilley III, Ryan Christopher Gilley, and Jacob Benjamin Gilley.

He is also survived by his siblings, David Shiel Wood (Judy) of Spartanburg, SC, Beth Wood Walters (Stuart) of Fayetteville, NC, and John Mark Wood (Janet) of Haw River, NC. Additional surviving family members include his uncle, Marion Wood (Jennie) of Southern Pines, NC; as well as numerous nieces; nephews; great-nieces; great-nephews; and cousins who remember him for his kindness, intelligence, and generosity.

A celebration of Allen's life will be held on December 27, 2024, at 11 a.m. at The Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Hickory, located at 726 1st Avenue NW, 28601.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Episoopal Church of the Ascension or the Humane Society of Catawba County.

Allen Wood will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for the incredible legacy of love, leadership, and service he leaves behind.

Burke Mortuary & Crematory of Newton is serving the Wood family.

Burke Mortuary & Crematory of Newton

828-464-4410