Phillip "Mike" Michael Allred

Dr. Phillip Michael “Mike” Allred of Bishop, GA, passed away on May 6, 2025. He was born on November 28, 1951, in Toccoa, Georgia to the late Larry Phillip and Louise (Brown) Allred. He is survived by his wife Debra Allred; daughter Katie M. Phillips (Jeremy); son Robert P. Allred (Bekah); grandsons Jare, Jase, and Jed Phillips; Sister Bobbie Jo Barton (Neal); Brother-in-Law Michael Jinks (Aimee); Mother-in-Law Aldean B Jinks; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mike spent most of his life in the Atlanta area. He earned his B.S. from the University of Georgia in 1974, an M.S. from Georgia Institute of Technology in 1976 and a Ph.D. from Emory University in 1981. Upon the completion of his education, Mike began his career as a toxicologist and health scientist with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division followed by over 24 years of distinguished service with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention where he was the NCEH/ASTDR Deputy Associate Director for the Office of Environmental Health Emergencies. During his career he served in various capacities on a wide array of National and International emergency responses for technological and natural disasters. These included events such as Hurricane Katrina, Deepwater Horizon, and Japan Tsunami/Fukushima. He was the author of numerous professional publications and presentations addressing complex and sensitive public health crises issues. Prior to retiring he was awarded the prestigious CDC & ASTDR Excellence in Leadership award for his innovative leadership style.

Perhaps Mike’s greatest achievement was in his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. Mike was married to his wife Debbie for 49 years. They were blessed with two wonderful children, Katie, and Bobby. Mike was always engaged in the many activities in which they were involved. While he set high standards for them, he was always the encourager and supporter of their efforts.

A highlight in Mike’s retirement was the birth of his three grandsons, Jare, Jase, and Jed. He was always available to read, entertain, boat, fish, play ball and instigate silly games and adventures with them. Perhaps his most treasured time with them was shared moments at his beloved Lake Burton home. From boat rides to tubing, skiing, fishing, swimming, grilling, and watching sunsets, there was no place or event valued by the entire family more than time spent together at the lake.

Mike was also an avid traveler having explored all 50 states and numerous overseas locations. His sense of adventure and joy for each place he visited was shared with Debbie.

Mike will be remembered for not only the memories he built with his family but for the impact he had on supporting each member to be the best they can be. His “grandaddy isms” will always be at the forethought of our minds.

Arrangements for a celebration of life for family and friends will be scheduled a later date.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com