Allan Head's courageous 3-year battle with cancer is over. The longtime Executive Director of the North Carolina Bar Association died on February 17, 2018, at the age of 73.
Allan was a native of Atlanta and son of the late E. Putnam "Put" Head and Tillie M. "Skip" Head. He is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Patti Reed Head; their son David Head and his wife Marti, and their children Carlyn, Charli, Clara and Chandler, of Charlotte; their son Darryl Head and his wife Karin, and their children Reed and Hayden, of Winston-Salem; their daughter Jayme Sanchez and her husband Arturo, and their children Arturo and Danielle, of Houston, Texas. Allan is also survived by his brother, Brian Head, of Falmouth, Mass.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday, February 20, 2018, 2:00 pm at White Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1704 Oberlin Rd. Raleigh, NC. The family will receive friends following the service at the church.
A second service will be held on Wednesday, February 21, 2018, 11:00 am at Enterprise Baptist Church, 404 Enterprise Rd., Littleton, NC. The family will receive friends following the service at the church.
Allan graduated from Sandy Springs High School in 1962 and proceeded from Atlanta to Wake Forest University, where he was a member of the track team and participated in the ROTC program. He graduated in 1966 and entered the Wake Forest University School of Law. Allan and Patti were married on June 10, 1967, and he graduated from law school in 1969. The Heads spent the early years of their marriage living in Germany, where Allan was a lawyer assigned to the U.S. Army Security Agency in Kassel and Augsburg.
The Heads returned to North Carolina in 1973 as Allan embarked upon his 43-year tenure with the NCBA. He joined the staff of the NCBA as Executive Secretary on December 1, 1973, and served as Executive Director from 1981 until his retirement on December 31, 2016.
Allan Head's career was marked by a number of accomplishments, including construction of the N.C. Bar Center in Cary, home of the NCBA and the North Carolina Bar Foundation since 1994. Additional milestones include the establishment of the NCBF Endowment, the implementation of NCBA Sections, the addition of the Senior Lawyers and Paralegal Divisions, and ongoing recognition of the NCBA as one of the finest bar organizations in the nation. He was so proud of the legal profession, the NCBA leaders he had the honor of working with and for, the Bar Association Staff (whom he referred to as family), and legacy of service to North Carolina that he felt the NCBA stood for at its core.
As one of the longest-serving bar association executives in the nation at the time of his retirement, Allan was an important figure among bar leaders and administrators. He served as president of the National Association of Bar Executives in 2006-07 and received the organization's highest honor, the Bolton Award, in 2010. Allan also served on multiple ABA Task Forces and Committees to advance the profession.
Allan received numerous other awards closer to home and across the state, including: the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, presented by Gov. Pat McCrory at the NCBA Annual Meeting (2015); the Pete Moffitt Courage Award (2016), presented annually to a Wake Forest University student-athlete, coach or alumnus who has displayed tremendous courage in the face of adversity; the Father of the Year Award (2014), selected by the Raleigh Father's Day Council; the James Iredell Award (2015), presented by Campbell Law School's Phi Alpha Delta law fraternity for contributions to the legal profession and Campbell Law School; the N.C. State Bar's Distinguished Service Award (2015). The Allan and Patti Head Family was also inducted into the Broughton High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007. The annual Broughton Football Coach's Award has been renamed in his honor as well.
A true citizen lawyer, Allan served as a member of the board of directors of the YMCA of the USA; as president and member of the board of directors of YMCA of the Triangle; as a member of the Wells Fargo Board of Directors (Cary); as chair of the Camp Kanata (YMCA) Advisory Board; and as stadium announcer for Wake Forest University football games for 4 years and Broughton High School football games for 27 years. In addition, he served more than three decades as treasurer and officer of the Wake County Bar Association, and was a member of the Chief Justice's Commission on Professionalism at the time of his death.
Faith and church life were always prominent in Allan's life and work. He served as a deacon, elder and treasurer at White Memorial, where the Heads maintained their membership for decades, and was thoroughly enjoying his involvement at Enterprise Baptist Church, which the Heads joined following Allan's retirement as they began spending more time at their Lake Gaston home. Allan served for more than two decades as an advisor for the Presbyterian Church's Appalachian Service Project, leading senior high mission trips (home repair ministry) to the impoverished coal-mining regions of Virginia, West Virginia and Kentucky.
Allan had many interrelated professional and personal interests, including travel. He loved taking trips with Bar Association members throughout the United States and abroad, especially visits to the Holy Land, where he was baptized and baptized others in the River Jordan. He enjoyed collecting thought-provoking sayings and quotations, many of which he used in multiple editions of booklets he called "Head Notes." Allan was especially fond of the following saying, "Always leave the campsite better than you found it."
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the YMCA of the Triangle's Camp Kanata Capital Building Fund (Raleigh, NC) or to Enterprise Baptist Church Youth Missions Fund (Littleton, NC).
Rest in peace Allan, knowing full well that your campsites were left far better than you found them.
Arrangements by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home & Crematory.
July 30, 2018
Friend
Earl Todd
I am sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Allan. He was my counselor at Camp Jolly Acres manny manny years ago. He was a great mentor and I will always have very fond memories of that time. To the Head family, my sincerest sympathy.
March 7, 2018
So sorry to hear of Mr Head's passing. He had a huge influence on me as a 20 something kid taking part in the Appalachian Service Project with a group of young people from NC and Northern Ireland. Very fond memories remain in my heart and my sincere condolences to Mrs Head, David, Darryl and Jayme. Lots of love from across the pond. Judith Colhoun (nee Anderson)xx
March 1, 2018
SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT ALLEN.HE WAS SUCH A SWEET FRIEND OF MINE.ENJOYED TALKING TO HIM WHILE I DREW HIS BLOOD.LOVED HIM AND HIS FAMILY.SUCH A BEAUTIFUL FAMILY.THEY MENT THE WORLD TO HIM AND PATTI WAS HIS NUMBER 1 IN HIS LIFE.SO SWEET.WILL MISS HIM DEEPLY. JUST FOUND IT OUT TODAY.HE WILL BE MISSED.BUT I KNOW HE IS WITH THE LORD.WE ALL WILL BE THERE ONE DAY.O WHAT A WONDERFUL DAY THAT WILL BE.LOVE IN CHRIST.MYRA
February 28, 2018
Classmate
Lilla Hammond
May God welcome Allan with open arms! Allan was a great man. Our prayers and thoughts are with him and his family.
February 28, 2018
marshall happer
Dear Patti and everyone in Allan's family.
Allan was a wonderful man and a wonderful friend. He earned everyone's respect. I was proud to be his friend and at one time even his real estate lawyer.
I know you will have great memories and I shall never forget my friend, Allan.
February 28, 2018
Don Mullins
Patti and Children, I was deeply saddened to learn of Allan's passing. While I chaired Springdale Estates' Architectural Committee, I sought Allan's guidance on a number of difficult or complex neighborhood situations through the years. He was always so gracious and willing to assist in working through various homeowners' issues. Allan was an invaluable asset to Springdale Estates Association; our HOA is a stronger and more effective organization today thanks to Allan's selfless efforts on behalf of SEA. May our God bring comfort to the Head Family as we celebrate a life so well lived.
February 22, 2018
Bernard & Joyce Scott
Patti and Family, we are so sorry to hear of Allan's passing. We had wonderful thoughts thinking of our soccer years with you and Allan and the family. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers
February 22, 2018
Friend
Jennifer Hicks
We were privileged to have Allan serve many years on our Governor-appointed advisory Council at the NC Zoo. His wit and wisdom will be missed by many. Our deepest condolences to the family.
~The NC Zoo staff
February 20, 2018
it is difficult to express an adequate tribute to someone who has given so much to the legal profession and to the individual attorneys in North Carolina as has Allan Head. As a newly elected attorney to the General Assembly in 1979, I cannot forget his warm welcome to Raleigh and offering his assistance to me. It was greatly appreciated. Thank you, Allan for all your contributions over the many years as head of the NCBA. Charles D. Evans Manteo NC
February 20, 2018
Albert Diaz
I read with great sorrow of Allan's passing. He leaves behind a timeless legacy of outstanding service to the Bar and the larger community. I was privileged to know him--may he rest in peace and may God bless his wonderful family.
February 20, 2018
Baron Herdelin-Doherty
Patti, David, Darryl, Jayme: Allan was a great role model for all of us to live by - a wonderful husband, father and citizen. Even though we haven't seen you both in a long time, stories that Darryl would tell me about both of you raising your family in such a wonderful way will last with me forever. Allan will always be remembered as a great YMCA guy helping the movement locally and nationally. Please know that our hearts are with you during this tough time. Blessings, Baron and Lisa
February 20, 2018
YWCA of Winston Salem Forsyth County
February 20, 2018
On behalf of the National Association of Bar Executives, I want to convey our most heartfelt condolences to Patti and Allan's family. He was a shining light in NABE, and his wisdom, his sense of humor, and his presence will be sorely missed. Bob Craghead, NABE President
February 20, 2018
Phyliss Craig-Taylor
February 20, 2018
Christopher Behm
There is a huge hole left in many important organizations with Allan's passing. He is truly irreplaceable.
I had the good fortune of getting to know Allan with volunteer work with the North Carolina Bar Association, which might not still exist without Allan's vigorous work, wisdom, and leadership. All members of the legal community in North Carolina are better off that it does, and for Allan's life work in its support.
As a Wake Forest University School of Law alumnus, I'm also thankful for all of Allan's passion and longtime support for our school. But, I'm sure he's now proudly sporting the Black and Gold in a better place!
Our heartfelt condolences are offered to the entire Head and Sanchez families during this difficult time.
February 20, 2018
Ed Bunch
Allan was an inspiration to all of us in the legal profession in North Carolina. I will truly miss his smiling face, his wisdom, and his kindness. Condolences to his beloved family.
February 19, 2018
Denisse Gonzalez
I am so sad to hear of Allan's passing. I will miss seeing him around the NC Bar. Thank you to all your contributions, Allan! Rest in peace.
February 19, 2018
My sympathies to you and your family. His was truly a life well lived.
David V. Liner
WFU School of Law
Class of "69
February 19, 2018
Buddy Herring
Patti- I was so sorry to hear of Alan's passing. From the time he served as my company commander in ROTC at Wake, through all the bar cruises and cle programs it was a joy to know him and you and I know he will be missed.
Buddy Herring '68 JD '71
February 19, 2018
Katrina Teague
February 19, 2018
Banzet family
Mr. Head's dedication to and love for his family was apparent to all, and he radiated kindness even to those of us he met only in passing. A fine gentleman with a servant's heart, he will be missed by so many everywhere. Prayers to his family.
February 19, 2018
Roseanne Lucianek
Patti,
Sending much love to you and your family for sharing this amazing man with us. I've learned countless lessons on how to live life fully, with passion, humor and a deep appreciation for each day. Allan's "Headnotes" have provided bar association staff with an invaluable guide for success; I will cherish my autographed copy.
I join in the prayers for you and your family and celebrate Allan's life and deep love of family and our Creator.
February 19, 2018
Rose u Pahl
Patti,
I am so sorry to hear about Allan's passing. He was always kind to me and supportive at more difficult times. May his memory be for blessing.
Rose Marie Pahl
February 19, 2018
a loved one
February 19, 2018
Jeff and Amber Freeman
February 19, 2018
Anne Murtha
So sorry to hear of Allan's passing. I worked with Allan at the YMCA. Still have a copy of his "Head Notes". Praying for God's comfort.
February 19, 2018
Keith Kiser
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
February 19, 2018
Randolph Bazemore
Dear Patti: I had the pleasure and privilege of getting to know Allan back when our children were involved in the YMCA "Indian Guide and Princess" Program which involved trips to Camp Sea Gull and Camp Kanata. I continued to know him through our mutual association with Broughton High School. He was a really fine man and I am blessed to have known him. May God bless and comfort all of you. Randolph (Randy) Bazemore
February 19, 2018
Margaret Shea Burnham
Allan was a pillar of the North Carolina Bar Association. It was an honor to know him and to work with him on the NCBA Board of Governors and committees. When people look back at the history of the NCBA, and the things it accomplished, the history and the accomplishments will be inseparable from Allan's name. What a man and what a legacy! Condolences to his family (including his extended NCBA family), Margaret
February 19, 2018
JoAnn Petilli
Allan was a remarkable man who was a pillar of strength and courage. Extending my heartfelt sympathy and prayers to Patti and their beautiful family. Fondly JoAnn
February 19, 2018
Charlotte Johnston
Allan was my boss during the late 70's when I was employed at the Bar Association. I wish for his beloved family healing and peace. Allan was one of the very best people I've ever known and will be missed. Charlotte Watson Johnston
February 19, 2018
Jennifer Bogacki
Allan was a wonderful example of a lawyer, a leader and a man of God. I am blessed to have worked under his leadership serving on Committee with NCBA, and I am so saddened to hear of his passing. May God bless his family and bring them comfort during this time of grief.
February 18, 2018
Nancy Galloway
Rest in Peace, my dear friend. It was my honor to be one of your many NABE friends. You were one of special leaders of NABE. You worked hard and enjoyed the many new ideas you were able to bring to our many meetings. You were always respected in our bar world. You will be sadly missed.
Nancy A. Galloway (Former Associate Director of the State Bar of Michigan and former Executive Director of the Oakland County Bar Association, Michigan) Retired
February 18, 2018
Barbara Jackson
Allan is irreplaceable, but leaves an amazing legacy and much to aspire to for all of us. Patti--my best to you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care. Barbara
February 18, 2018
FRED @ FRANCES BREWER
YOU WILL BE MISSED .YOUR LOVE FOR GOD ALWAYS SHOWED IN YOUR COURAGEOUS WALK DAILY. WE WILL MISS YOU.
February 18, 2018
Linda Foushee Miskovich
Patti..my thoughts and prayers are with you and your Family during this time. Linda Foushee Miskovich
February 18, 2018
Lorinda Foushee Plapp (GHS '64)
Patti, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
February 18, 2018
Janice Shaffer
Patti, I was so sorry to read of Allen's passing. Trust that you and your family's great memories will offer you solace at this sad time. Sincerely, Jan Shaffer, GHS Class of '64
February 18, 2018
Friend
Pam Helen Ronald Boyd
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Haysi Friends will miss this great man .
February 18, 2018
a loved one
February 18, 2018
a loved one
February 18, 2018
Tom Steele, Jr
Allan was a fine man, a joy to be around, a friend to all. I am thankful for his life and ministry to the lawyers of North Carolina and to many others. May perpetual light shine upon him and may God bless his family and the many who grieve his loss.
February 18, 2018
a loved one
February 18, 2018
Derrick Vause
February 18, 2018
Rest in Peace Allan. Many memories, not the least which were our recent talks. Your have shown great strength and courage. You leave a legacy that will inspire others. God bless your family.
Guy and Shirley Sodano
February 17, 2018
Acquaintance
Gaynelle Byrd
Mrs.Head I was sorry to hear of Mr. Head's demise. I enjoyed our time last weekend. May God provide comfort for you during your time of bereavement. Gaynelle Byrd,R.N.
February 17, 2018
Sherrie & Brian Towne
Allen was a kind and selfless man who quickly won the heart and respect of my son-in-law. Allen served as a mentor and role model to Derrick and will always be admired for the legacy he leaves with family, friends and the law community. I feel confident that he is with Jesus and had completed his work here. My sincere condolences to David, Patty and the entire family. You are all in our prayers.
February 17, 2018
Ginny Craig
February 17, 2018
Ginny Craig
February 17, 2018
Rest in peace my dear friend. You have made the NC Bar Association the great organization that it is today. Your life meant so much to many tens of thousands of folks along the way.
Ed Powell, Winston-Salem, NC
February 17, 2018
Friend
Ginny Craig
February 17, 2018
Friend
Ginny Craig
February 17, 2018
Friend
Ginny Craig
February 17, 2018
Friend
Ginny Craig
February 17, 2018
Friend
Ginny Craig
So many wonderful memories with Allan & his family. His encouragement, wisdom & love allowed me to go places I never thought possible. He will forever be in my heart
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