Norman Allen III

1958 - 2025

After a private and hard fought battle with colon cancer, it is with deep love and sadness that we share the passing of Norman Edward Allen, III, of Powhatan, Virginia. Born in Harrisonburg, Virginia, Norman, affectionately known to many as Norm, was a man who didn't seek large groups but could connect with anyone in a quiet conversation, especially when the topic turned to family, sports, or pets.

Norman was an eternal optimist, finding the good in people and situations, no matter the challenge. He loved his family deeply, especially "his girls," Mary-Margaret, Candace, and Emily. After 32 years of marriage, Norman still affectionately referred to Mary-Margaret as " my beautiful bride," and often said that their marriage and family was the best part of his life. Norman was extremely proud of his daughters-not only for their achievements but especially because of the kind and compassionate women they have become.

A lifelong lover of science, technology, and space exploration, Norman's curiosity knew no bounds. He watched every space launch that was televised with the same wonder of the child who watched man land on the moon in 1969. Norman loved sharing that curiosity with Candace and was happy when their conversations turned to space and science.

Music was another of Norman's passions. He began playing guitar as a teenager and performed in several bands throughout Richmond in his early adulthood. He was delighted to share his love of playing music and new artists with Emily, and was in awe of her talent and ability to play a variety of instruments with different ensembles.

Norman's optimism, dad jokes, and gentle spirit made every day brighter. His absence leaves an ache in our hearts, but his love, laughter, and curiosity will continue to guide us every day.

Norman is predeceased by his mother, Myrtiemae, Whiteside, Allen, and his father, Norman, Edward Allen, Jr. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Mary-Margaret Bittle Allen, daughter, Candace Allen Major (Wayne), daughter, Emily Bradshaw Allen, granddaughter, Skye Addison Major, many loving aunts, uncles and cousins, a very special cousin, Jackie Sullivan Smoot, and his "in-laws" with whom he shared a close and loving relationship.

Visitation will be at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Affinity Funeral Home, 2720 Enterprise Pkwy, Richmond, VA 23294. A celebration of Norman's life will be held at 3:00 p.m., immediately following visitation.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to make a donation to one of the programs that were special to Norman, Spectre Percussion or Girl Scouts of America:

Spectre Percussion: https://www.spectreperformingarts.org/support

GSA Bridging Waters Unit Number 802

13400 New Kent Highway

Lanexa, VA 23089