Dr. Patrick G. Allen, of Highlands, North Carolina, passed away suddenly on May 15. He was in the arms of his loving wife, Patricia Flewellyn Allen, who shared his love for 33 years.

Pat was born in Jackson, Mississippi, and attended Millsaps College, where he earned a double Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and physics and a minor degree in biology. He then attended the University of Tennessee, Memphis, dental school where he earned a Doctor of Dental Science degree. He was then commissioned to the United States Air Force as a dentist and served as a Colonel at Aviano Air Force Base in Italy. He enjoyed traveling throughout Italy and Germany during his time in Europe. He returned to the US and practiced dentistry in Atlanta for a short time before furthering his career as an oral surgeon. He trained in oral surgery as a fellow at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he also received a Master of Science degree. He then moved to Macon, Georgia, where he practiced for almost 30 years.

He was a member of the American Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American Dental Association and served as president of the Georgia Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons. His compassion for his patients was felt by all.

He lived in Highlands, North Carolina for 23 years where he and his wife opened the Morning Star Inn and operated it for 7 years before retiring. He lived a full life and enjoyed traveling the world, scuba diving, theater, classical music and reading.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia (Pat) Allen, children Julie Johnson Osborn, Henry Lee Johnson, III, Kevin Drew Allen, Stephanie Lynn Allen, Jennifer Allen Johannessen and six grandchildren.

He was the epitome of a fine southern gentleman and his kindness and loving spirit will be missed by all who were fortunate to have known him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cashiers Highlands Humane Society, P.O. Box 638, Cashiers, NC 28717 in honor of Miss Lucy, who brought so much joy to Pat’s life.