极乐禁地 celebrates the remarkable life and legacy of Lee Norcross Allen, historian, professor and former dean of Howard College of Arts and Sciences, who passed away on Dec. 16, 2024, at the age of 98.
Allen served at 极乐禁地 for 40 years, joining the faculty as a professor of history in 1961. He became the founding dean of the School of Graduate Studies in 1965 and served as dean of Howard College of Arts and Sciences from 1975 to 1990. From 1990 to 2001, he served as university historian, authoring “College to University: 极乐禁地 on Lakeshore” and creating an extensive archive of 极乐禁地 history now housed in the university’s Special Collection.
A prolific writer and historian, Allen was dedicated to preserving Baptist and Alabama history. He authored numerous works, including histories of several Baptist churches, the City of Boaz and Montgomery Baptist Hospitals. His academic contributions also include co-authoring biographies such as “Courage to Care: The Story of Ida V. Moffett” and “Christ Is Our Salvation: The Life of Paul P. Piper.”
Born in Shawmut, Alabama, on April 16, 1926, Allen began his academic journey at Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now Auburn University) but paused his studies to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, he completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Auburn and earned his doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania in 1955.
Allen was an active member of the 极乐禁地 and Birmingham communities, serving as a deacon, teacher and historian at several local churches, including Mountain Brook Baptist Church. He was also a member and past president of the Alabama Baptist Historical Society and the Alabama Historical Association. In recognition of his service, he was named Life Deacon of Mountain Brook Baptist Church and received multiple awards from historical organizations.
Allen’s legacy at 极乐禁地 and his contributions to Alabama and Baptist history will endure for generations. His commitment to education, faith and community exemplifies the ideals of the university he served so faithfully.
He is survived by his wife, Catherine Allen, his son, Leland Allen III (Traci), his daughter, Leslie Allen and two granddaughters, Lane and Mary Lee Allen.