Long-time consultant, Jim Parrish, loses battle with cancer
TAMPA (August 10, 2015) – Jim Parrish, long-time consultant for the Florida SBDC at University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business, lost his battle with cancer on Sunday, August 9. Jim celebrated his 20th year with the Florida SBDC Network, this year.
“This has been a very tough time for all of us,” Regional Director, Eileen Rodriguez, said. “Jim meant so much to all of us. He’s mentored just about every consultant in our region.”
Jim’s successful career in finance helped to serve his clients well. He had more than 40 years of experience as a bank executive, small business loan officer, financial counselor and instructor.
He was responsible for the coordination of the Florida SBDC Network Growth Acceleration Services. This statewide service provides extensive consulting services to assist a company in its growth efforts while improving financial performance of the firm.
At the FSBDC at USF, Jim specialized in providing consulting services to grow second-stage firms, turnaround strategies for companies in financial distress, improvement for the financial performance of healthcare practices, and assistance with all aspects of obtaining business financing.
He had a passion for helping to grow small businesses and sharing in their successes.
Most recently, Jim was charged with mentoring Growth Acceleration consultants hired by the Florida SBDC at USF region.
“He has been so instrumental in our statewide Network,” Rodriguez added. “He’s helped shape what the Florida SBDC Network is today. He was a wonderful long-time friend to many of us at the SBDC. He touched the lives of so many small business owners. We are going to miss him dearly.”
He is survived by his daughter, Melanie Bonanno, three grand-children, and his son, Scott.
Condolences may be sent to the Florida SBDC at USF, 1101 Channelside Dr., Suite 210, Tampa, FL 33602.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 28 at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home/Hillsboro Memorial Gardens, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, Fl 33511 (http://www.dignitymemorial.com/hillsboro-memorial-funeral-home/en-us/directions.page). Reception will begin at 1 p.m., followed by the service at 2 p.m.
