Eugene Allen, a long-time civil rights advocate and former White House butler, passed away on Saturday, March 31, 2010 at the age of 90. Mr. Allen served 34 years in the White House, serving eight presidents, until his retirement in 1986. During his tenure at the White House, Allen gained a reputation as a consummate professional and a dedicated public servant. As well as tending to the needs of the first family and their guests, he was occasionally called upon to provide advice to the President. He also played an important role in the civil rights movement of the 1960s, frequently attending White House gatherings for civil rights leaders. Born on July 14, 1919 in Virginia, Eugene was the oldest of seven children born to William and Lizzie Allen. He attended the segregated school system of the District of Columbia, then worked as a waiter in order to make ends meet. In 1950, Eugene accepting a position in the White House mailroom, and over the years he worked his way up to maitre d' and supervised daily operations in the White House. Eugene is survived by his daughters, Sharon and Marsha, as well as six grandchildren, a great-grandchild, two sisters, and two brothers. He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Helene, who died in 2008. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 7th at the Washington National Cathedral, honoring the life and legacy of Eugene Allen.