Sharlene Allen Harrelson

Sharlene Allen Harrelson, 79, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, May 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 20, 1945, in Pasquotank County, NC, to the late William "Bill" Allen and Julia Perry Allen, and was the wife of 38 years to the late Carlton Harrelson, who left this world far too soon in 2004.

A dedicated professional, Sharlene formerly worked in the Finance Department at Ralph Scott Life Services, where she made lasting friendships and touched many lives. Sharlene was a proud mother and biggest cheerleader for Allen and Melissa, attending every sporting event and nurturing their passions with constant encouragement. She took immense pleasure in being around Allen's friends and their families when he sang with the Celebration Singers. Sharlene was known for wearing bright colors in her clothing, even neon green, sparkly shoes and colorful prints. She enjoyed collecting all kinds of nutcrackers, reading, needlepointing and listening to beach music. Sharlene loved spending time with her family but mostly with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving children, Allen Carlton Harrelson and Melissa Harrelson McHarney and her husband Charlie; her grandchildren that she adored, Caelan, Callie and Coco McHarney; her extended family, Toyin Emenike, her husband Joshua and their son Jason; her brothers, Nathan Allen and his wife Ginger Rains, Jake Allen and his wife Vickie and Stephen Allen and his wife Shelia, along with several nieces and nephews who adored her dearly. Sharlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carlton and her dear parents, Bill and Julia Allen, their memories live on in the hearts of those they touched.

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Sharlene will be held at 3:00pm Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel by Rev. Walter Webster with the burial to follow at Graham Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 1:30 to 2:45pm Saturday prior to the service and other times at the brother, Nathan Allen's residence in Burlington. The family has requested if you're planning on attending the visitation or service wear a bright color to honor Sharlene, since she enjoyed wearing bright colors.

Memorials may be made to Ralph Scott Lifeservices Main Office, 408 West Trade Street, Burlington, NC 27217. Sharlene graced this world with her loving, devoted, caring, and nurturing spirit, imparting warmth and joy to all who knew her. You may send condolences and watch the service online at www.lowefuneralhome.com.