Eugene PARGH

1922 - 2018

PARGH, Eugene Eugene Pargh passed away peacefully at home in the early hours of Saturday, September 8, 2018. He was surrounded by family during his final days. A longtime resident of Florida, Eugene was born on August 22, 1922, in Cleveland, OK. He was 96 years old at the time of his death. His parents were Abe and Caroline Pargh, both of blessed memory. Eugene was married in 1949 to Madeline, his wife of 65 years. He is survived by his children: Bernie, Andy and Linda, and seven grandchildren: Amanda, Franklin, Elliot, Melissa, Jeremy, Lexi and Lindsey. He is also survived by five great grandsons. Eugene graduated from Hume Fogg High School and enlisted in the Naval Flight School of the United States Navy. He was a fighter pilot during the Second World War, serving in both the Atlantic and Pacific. He was the recipient of several medals of honor, including the Distinguished Flying Cross. He is the brother of the late Bernard Frank Pargh, who was killed at the end of World War II. He formed a business partnership with Gerald Averbuch and became pioneers in developing motels in Nashville, including the Anchor Motel and Holiday Inn brands. They also built several apartment complexes in Nashville, Knoxville and Huntsville, AL. Eugene was a founding member of General Care Corporation specializing in private hospitals in the south. Eugene and Madeline were significant philanthropists in both Nashville and South Florida. Together, they were major donors in funding the Gordon Jewish Community Center, the Jewish Federation, The Temple and numerous other Jewish organizations in Nashville and South Florida. They also supported Harpeth Hall and other local charities. Services will be held on Wednesday, September 12th at 11:00 a.m. at The Temple on Harding Road. Burial to follow at The Temple cemetery. Pallbearers: Dr. Mark Averbuch, Dr. Larry Averbuch, Jerry Averbuch, Howard Kirshner, Mark Garfinkel, Scott Garfinkel and Billy Eskind. In lieu of flowers, feel free to make a donation to your favorite charitable organization. visit MarshallDonnellyCombs.com 615-327-1111.