George Peter Vargha

Rocky Mount – George Peter Vargha, age 80, passed away peacefully after a year-long battle with cancer on Monday, April 13, 2026.  Born in Győr, Hungary on January 7, 1946, he was the son of the late John Vargha and Anna Jozsa Vargha.

George’s early life was shaped by the Hungarian Revolution of 1956.  Following the Soviet invasion, his family fled Hungary under dangerous conditions, crossing into Austria and eventually settling in the United States after arriving at Camp Kilmer, New Jersey, on Christmas Day 1956.  Arriving without speaking English, George quickly adapted with determination and resilience.  With the help of dedicated teachers, he learned the language and developed a lifelong love of reading.  He attended Highland Park High School, where he played tennis and swam competitively, and became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1964.

George attended Boston University before transferring to the University of South Carolina.  During this time, he married Marie Nauful and later served in the United States Army, including a tour of duty in Germany.  After his military service, he returned to complete his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina in 1974.  He was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity where he developed many lifelong friendships.  After 60 years many of them continue to gather regularly.  He built a successful career in materials management and purchasing, working with McGaw Laboratories in Georgia and later Abbott Laboratories (Hospira) in Rocky Mount until his retirement in 2007.

George was an avid golfer and an active member of Northgreen, Birchwood, and Benvenue Country Clubs, where he also served in leadership roles.  He gave generously of his time to the American Cancer Society and St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, where he served as treasurer.

After marrying Leslie in 2012, George enjoyed traveling extensively throughout Europe.  Together, they participated in bicycle tours and later river cruises, including meaningful trips back to Hungary where he reconnected with his heritage.  A devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and good friend to many, George will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

George is survived by his devoted wife, Leslie Hall; his sister, Cindy Vargha Stevens; his son, George Vargha, Jr. (Krystal); his daughter, Lisa Vargha Pearce (Kevin); his stepson, Erick Hall (Andrew); and his stepdaughter, Katie Keeter (Ryan). He also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren Elizabeth Pearce, Lily Pearce, Brianna Vargha, Ashlyn Vargha, George Vargha III, and Caroline Keeter; and many extended family members and good friends.

A Celebration of Life Service to celebrate George’s life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 1:30 PM in the sanctuary of St Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 301 S Circle Dr, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with Rev. Les Carpenter officiating.  Visitation with the family will be following the services at the home of his stepdaughter.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Food Pantry at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 301 S Circle Dr, Rocky Mount, NC 27804, or UNC Nash Foundation, 2460 Curtis Ellis Dr., Rocky Mount, NC 27804.

The family would like to say a special thank-you to the staff of UNC Nash Cancer Center, Nash Hospice and Palliative Care, and Amada Senior Care, especially Miss Margaret.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.