News Summary
Randy Shelley Allen, a cherished figure in Shelby, has passed away at 63 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Known for his culinary talents and community service, his legacy includes significant contributions to local organizations, including the Rotary Club and Masonic Lodge. Randy is remembered for his warmth, humor, and deep connections with family and friends, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Shelby, NC – The community of Shelby is in mourning following the passing of Randy Shelley Allen, a beloved local figure who fought a brave battle against pancreatic cancer. Allen, aged 63, passed away on July 22, 2025, at Hospice of Wendover in Shelby after being diagnosed with the illness in January 2024.
Randy was known for his remarkable culinary skills, especially his top-secret roast beef recipe, which he generously shared during significant moments in people’s lives, whether in times of need, sorrow, celebration, or joy. His dedication to the food service industry spanned decades, culminating in a successful career that included influential roles as the Northeast Director of Sales for Standex (BKI) Cooking Solutions and Vice President of Business Development for The Middleby Corporation.
Furthering his entrepreneurial spirit, Randy served as the President of Printing and Packaging, Inc. and Printcraft Company, Inc. His impact was felt in both his professional and personal life, where he was remembered for his storytelling, humor, and deep care for those around him.
Background and Personal Life
Born on January 10, 1962, in Greenwood, SC, Randy was a lifelong resident of Shelby, where he graduated from Shelby High School in 1980. As a teenager, he worked as a summer lifeguard at Shelby City Park, building friendships that would last a lifetime. His participation in high school activities included being an engaged member of the band and swim team.
Randy’s dedication to community service included significant contributions to local organizations. He was a troop patrol leader in Boy Scout Troop #104, just a merit badge shy of achieving Eagle Scout status, and he was actively involved in Aldersgate United Methodist Church as part of the Methodist Men’s Association. He also took on leadership roles in the Rotary International Club in Forest City, including serving as its president in 1987, and he was a Master Mason at Cleveland County Masonic Lodge #744 where he served as Master twice. His contributions to the lodge included founding the bereavement committee, earning recognition as Mason of the Year in May 2025.
Family
Randy is survived by his wife, Catherine (Cathy) Allen, his daughters Cortlan Zaludek and Caroline Thebeau, and stepson Shane Greene. His grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life, include Jack, Max, Avery, Platt, Abbott, Rylee, and Toby. He shared a deep bond with his family, ensuring they were well-traveled and particularly cherished the family trips to New York City over the Christmas season.
Randy is also survived by his four siblings: Altman Ann Allen Anderson, Ginger Whitehead, Kevin Allen, and twin brother Sandy Allen. He was preceded in death by his father, James Platt Allen, and his mother and stepfather, Joan and Boyce Hanna.
Memorial Services
The family will receive friends at Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory on July 25, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A life celebration and full Masonic Rites service are set to take place at Aldersgate United Methodist Church on July 26, 2025, at 11:00 AM, officiated by Reverend Dr. Jeff Patterson. Following the service, a burial will occur at Sunset Cemetery.
As Shelby reflects on the legacy of Randy Shelley Allen, the community remembers a man whose passion for food, dedication to service, and love for family will leave a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege to know him.
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Additional Resources
- Shelby Star: Randy Shelley Allen Obituary
- Wikipedia: Cancer
- Legacy.com: Randy Allen Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google Search: Randy Shelley Allen obituary
Author: HERE Greenwood
GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
