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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Our deepest are extended to the family of Minnie Surratt. She was a dedicated member and served as a treasurer for many years. Her baking skills will be surely missed as well as her smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.