Ronald Lee (Cowbuster) Allen, 64, of 323 East Locust Street, Covington, Virginia, died Saturday, July 25, 2009 in Alleghany Regional Hospital.

Mr. Allen was born May 4, 1945 in Alleghany County, a son of the late Gene and Gladys Graves Allen.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his twin brother, Donald Lee Allen, a brother, Ricky Allen, and a sister, Linda Wyatt.

He had retired in 2004 as a conductor after more than 20 years with CSX Railroad.

He was a member of the Pine Street Baptist Church, where he served as an usher and as a member of the Men's Choir.

Surviving are his wife of 41 years, Geraldine Fourquean Allen, of Covington; his son, Stevie L. Allen of Covington; two daughters, Teresa Carroll and her husband, Michael Carroll, II, of Clifton Forge, and Sherry Allen and her friend, Antonia Moore, of Phoenix City, AL; six grandchildren, L.C. and Erika Carroll, Dellmar Carroll, Shaneitra Moore, Markel Moore, Justin Allen and Ronald Allen; one great grandson, Michael L. Carroll, III; a god-daughter, Caprice Laws; his sister, Barbara Jean Allen of Covington and several nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be held Thursday morning at 11:00 a.m. in the Pine Street Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Thomas Simmons officiating.

Interment will be made in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Friends may pay their respects at any time at Arritt Fuenral Home. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Arritt Funeral Home.

Memorials: The family suggests that donations in Mr. Allen's name be made to the Pine Street Baptist Church; 347 E. Pine St; Covington, VA 24426.

The Arritt Funeral Home, Covington, is in charge of arrangements.