Mr. Johnny Lee Surratt Sr. was born February 20, 1943, in Morganton, NC to the late James Joseph Surratt Sr. and the late Mary Louise Surratt, the youngest of four siblings.  He departed this earthly life for his Heavenly reward on Tuesday April 30, 2024, at his residence.  Johnny was a very handsome and skillful young man, with a love for sports that went unmatched.  He played basketball and football, as the star tight end, before graduating from historic Olive Hill High School.  Johnny continued his education at North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC.  He joined the military where he served three years in the United States Army, which included serving in Vietnam.  Johnny received an honorable discharge at the rank of sergeant.

He initially aspired to become a geologist, but after returning from the war, law enforcement piqued his interest.  In 1969, Johnny became one of the first African Americans to serve as a North Carolina State Highway Patrolman.  Under the call sign G-44, Trooper Surratt's first assignment was in the Asheville area, proudly serving the western North Carolina region for eighteen years.  After serving in law enforcement, Johnny worked with at-risk youth in group homes until retirement.  Johnny will be remembered for being highly intelligent, having a very kind heart, and his love for the game.   Go Duke!  Go Redskins!

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings Hazel Bristol, James Surratt, and Mabel Surratt.  Left to mourn his loss but cherish his precious memories is his beloved wife Cecelia Surratt of the home; three children, Johnny "Dusty" Surratt (April Benfield) of Morganton, Hope Surratt-Foster (Wynton) of Los Angeles, CA, Zachary Brian Surratt (Ebony Edwards) of Raleigh, NC; step-children, Kimberly Johnson (Greg) of Hendersonville, NC, Kailey Hill (Cain) of Fayetteville, NC, Kristin (Kirt) of Charlotte, NC; sister-in-law Lolley Mae Surratt of Tennessee, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all of which were his pride and joy.

A homegoing celebration will be held Saturday May 11, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. at FAM Church with Pastor Rocky Dula presiding and Pastor Jason Burnette serving as eulogist; interment will follow at Olive Hill Cemetery.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.