Reactions pour in after death of Beville Mayor Mike Allen
BELVILLE, NC (WWAY) — Reactions continue to pour in from across our area after the death of Belville Mayor Mike Allen.
On Thursday, the town announced Allen died overnight the age of 76.
Allen was with the town of Belville for more than 15 years, including seven terms as mayor.
A US Army veteran, Allen also served the community as a captain with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office.
Brunswick County Commissioner Mike Forte says Allen was a close friend, and that he was heartbroken to hear of his passing.
“Just a very dear, dear friend who I respected and admired. I mean loved by everybody,” he said. “I don’t know anybody that’s said a bad word about Mayor Mike. I will miss him terribly.”
The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office shared a post on Facebook about Allen’s service that reads:
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Michael “Mike” Allen, a man who dedicated his life to service in every sense of the word. Known for wearing many hats including Retired Command Sergeant Major, Captain, and Mayor, Mike Allen left an indelible mark on his community, his country, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Command Sergeant Major Allen retired from the United States Army after more than 30 years of faithful and honorable service in both the Army and Army Reserve. His military career was marked by leadership, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to those he served alongside.
In his role as Captain Allen, he continued his legacy of service as a deputy sheriff with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, where he oversaw the reserve deputy staff. His 44 years in law enforcement, which included time with the Southport Police Department, reflected his deep-rooted dedication to protecting and serving others.
To many, he was also Mayor Allen, the respected and steadfast mayor of the Town of Belville since 2012. As mayor, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his constituents, advocating for clean water, historical preservation, recreational spaces, and educational opportunities. His visionary leadership has helped shape Belville into a vibrant and forward-looking community.
Throughout his life, Mayor Allen received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the highest honors granted by the Governor of North Carolina. He also served as the town’s representative on the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) with the Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (WMPO).
Mike Allen’s life was a testament to service, leadership, and integrity. Whether wearing the uniform of a soldier, the badge of a deputy, or the mantle of a mayor, he led with heart, vision, and an unwavering sense of duty.
We honor his legacy, mourn his loss, and extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.”
A spokesperson for the town says Mayor Pro Tem Chuck Bost will serve as Belville’s acting mayor.
