October 30, 2022, 80, La Grange –
May 21, 1942 – October 30, 2022
Emmitt Eugene Parrish, 80, entered his eternal home with his Lord and Savior, surrounded by his family on Sunday, October 30, 2022. Eugene was born in Wayne County to the late Walter Emmitt and Sally Daniels Parrish on May 21, 1942. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three siblings, Judy Ward, Carrol Suddreth, and Donald Parrish.
For more than fifty years, Eugene served his community as owner and operator of Carolina Service Center. Opening his first location in September of 1965, he opened the second location in November of 1985 where he worked until his retirement. His love for cars and ability to fix all things broken were key ingredients for a successful business, yet his shop was much more than that. A local gathering place for farmers and members of the community, folks knew they could meet there to share in fellowship, voice their concerns, and even join in Bible Study and prayer.
Devoted to his community, Eugene was a charter member and Past President of the La Grange Lions Club. He also was a member of the Masonic Lodge and helped to start the Cub Scouts in La Grange, serving as a leader. Serving our country through the United States National Guard, Eugene’s love for his country and the flag was paramount. Wanting to see the flag given the utmost respect, he made sure to keep a flag flying and in good repair at his church.
A lifelong member of Walnut Creek Original Free Will Baptist Church, Eugene served his Lord faithfully through a life of dedication. Serving as a Deacon at the church was one of many outward and visible signs of his deep faith. No matter the location or the circumstance, Eugene was always ready to share the gospel with anyone willing to listen. His passion to care for others was evidenced in the many widows throughout town to whom he lent a helping hand when they were in need.
The rock of his family, Eugene was deeply committed to his wife, children, and grandchildren. He instilled the importance of faith in Jesus and taught them many life lessons about the importance of a good work ethic, money management, and how to make wise decisions. Known to give the best advice, Eugene was the go-to for his family when advice was sought.
Eugene was known for his ability to fix anything with his hands. From repairing a car to making the best fish stew, he could really do it all. Winning awards for speed typing in high school, Eugene’s need for speed went beyond the keyboard. He loved fast cars and won trophies for many races throughout his life. With a constantly positive attitude, his response to the question, “How are you?” was often, “I’m going 160”.
A service of love and remembrance will be held by the graveside at Fairview Cemetery, La Grange, at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 2, 2022 with Pastors George Futrelle and Tony McLamb officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.
Eugene is survived by his devoted wife of fifty-six years, Dora Ham Parrish; children, Christel Parrish Perry and husband, Jay and Emmitt Eugene “Gene” Parrish, Jr. and wife, April; grandchildren, Taylor Whitman and husband, Hunter, Trey Perry, Madison Bell and husband, Hunter, and Bailey Parrish; sister, Sylvia Galloway, and husband, Ronnie; brothers-in-law, Joe Ward and Wade Suddreth; sister-in-law, Christine Parrish; and special neighbors and friends, Bryce and Nelda Johnson.
It was an honor for Eugene’s family to care for him during his years of declining health. Their care was simply a response to the love and devotion he showed them throughout his life. Dora especially saw to his needs day in and day out, and the entire family is eternally grateful for the devotion she has shown. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff of Community Home Health and Hospice and to his nurse, Crystal Sutton for their compassionate care for Eugene.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to
Walnut Creek Original Free Will Baptist Church
138 North Beston Road
La Grange, NC 28551
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
