Minnie Lee Surratt of Morganton, NC, passed away, Sunday, June 4, 2023. Minnie was born on January 14, 1947 to the late Edward and Ophelia Johnson in her beloved hometown of Burke County, where she lived for 76 years. She was a graduate of McDowell Tech Nursing School and retired from her nursing career after 30 devoted years at J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center, formally Western Carolina Center. She continued her passion for working well into her sixties as a home health nurse. In her retirement, she served as a member of the Red Hat Society and Bethunes Women’s Club, along with treasurer of the Distinguished Women and Gentlemen’s Club for several years. In addition to her philanthropy, Minnie used her remarkable culinary skills to cook and serve meals for thousands of people at no charge. Minnie loved to travel around the world with visits to Greece, Turkey, Alaska, England, and throughout the Caribbean. When she wasn’t traveling, you could find her cheering for her grandsons at sporting events or shopping at every local thrift store. Those who knew her loved her deeply and described her as selfless, generous, forgiving, and having a “heart of gold.”
She is survived by her children, Charles Edward Surratt Jr. (Amanda), Andrena Surratt, and Jamahl Surratt (Brandi); grandsons, Charlie Williams, Ian Surratt, Ethan Kincaid, Terrence Jaylen Surratt, Chazz Surratt, Sage Surratt, and Nate Surratt; granddaughters, Sydney Surratt, Joie Morrison, Sara Epley, and Jessy Epley; great-grandson, Zander Surratt; great-granddaughter, Jonai Morrison; brothers, James Corpening, and Clarence Johnson (Shirley); sister, Christine Johnson; along with a host of nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Minnie is preceded by her husband, Charles Edward Surratt, Sr.; son, Terrence Surratt (Nicole); brother, Eugene “Dusty Red” Johnson, brother, Virgil Lee Johnson; and sister Rebecca “Bookie” Johnson.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 5 p.m., Monday, June 12, 2023 at First United Methodist Church. The funeral service will be held at 5 p.m. in the church. Burial will follow at Shiloh AME Church Cemetery.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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My sincerest sympathy and condolences are extended to Minnie’s children, family, and loving friends. We were schoolmates and shared a bloodline. May she rest in eternal peace and my prayers of comfort and peace to her loved ones. - Greta Tate
Our deepest condolences to the family and many friends who loved and cared for Mrs. Minnie Surratt. We were Blessed enough to call her "Grandma Minnie" and will always have loving and fond memories of her. A good soul has ascended to heaven, rest in eternal peace.
My deepest condolences to the Surratt family. Sending prayers and comfort during this difficult time.
I love Minnie I worked with her for years at the center and her best friend Ella we went out to eat Chinese food as much as we could for lunch I know she'll be greatly missed loved her with all my heart great woman
Thinking of the family at this difficult time, so sorry for the loss of Minnie , such a good soul.
Sorry for your loss. Minnie was a wonderful person. She loved cooking and serving people. Praying for the Surratt family.
Our sincere condolences to the family of Mrs. Minnie Surratt. She was a beautiful Lady inside and out with a beautiful heart to serve the community. She always was willing to help our area churches and community centers. We are praying for comfort during your time of bereavement. Love Donald and Stephanie Davis
Our sincere condolences to Minnie's family. We went to Olive Hill High School with her. I remember the large delicious brownies that she said was a secret recipe. Also how she took care of her cousin Paul Chambers when he was a resident of McAlpine Adult Care. May God bless each of you during this most difficult time in your lives. You remain in our most sincere prayers.
My condolences to the entire Surratt family. My prayers are with you!🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Minnie is at peace with the Father. Praying for you all during this most difficult time. I'm so sorry for your loss. I have great memories of Minnie from childhood to present day! Great Woman of God.