Dr. Tom Allen is a native of Harnett County and grew up in the rural community of Bunnlevel.  His home  church, Friendship Baptist, is where Tom made his profession of faith and was baptized at the age of 9. He attended public school in Lillington before going on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology from Campbell University and the School of Medical Technology at the Bowman Gray School of Medicine.

After sensing a call to ministry, Tom continued his studies, completing a Bachelor of Arts degree at Furman University and a Master of Divinity degree at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.  He received his Doctor of Ministry degree from George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University.

Tom joined the staff at First Baptist Southern Pines in August of 1992 after serving Ridge Road Baptist Church as Minister of Education for seven years.

Tom enjoys writing as an extension of his ministry.  He has written devotional resources for several Christian publishers as well as youth curriculum for the Baptist Sunday School Board. He also contributes children, youth, and adult curriculum for Smyth and Helwys Publishing Company.

Tom is married to Beverly, a former social worker and Minister of Education. They met while students in seminary. Beverly is a stay-at-home mom who enjoys caring for their two daughters, Hannah and Sarah.

In addition to cooking unique creations for his family and friends (which appeals to the chemist in him from laboratory days), Tom enjoys reading, the beach, and all types of music. He's also learning to play golf in what little spare time he has!

In addition to directing the work of the Sunday School and discipleship training, Tom teaches new member classes, supervises the work of the support staff, and oversees the administration of the church computer network.  He welcomes the opportunity to help assimilate new members into the life of the church and nurture the spiritual growth of First Baptist members through diverse and creative learning experiences.