James R. Surles

James Ronald Surles, 83 of Fayetteville, NC went to be with the Lord while at home on November 13, 2021. James “Jimmy” “Peep” Surles was born August 26, 1938 in Fayetteville, NC to the late parents Mary Lillian and David Garland Surles. Beloved husband, son, father, grandfather, brother, friend, teacher and coach to many in Cumberland County, NC. He loved his family and spending time cooking, fishing, watching his grandchildren’s ballgames, teaching them to fish, and telling them stories.

James “Sujey” Surles attended Massey Hill High School and played on their State Championship football team as well as the State Champion baseball team along with several Legendary teammates (1958). After Graduating from East Caroling University, for over 42 years, James “Jimmy” Surles was a devoted history teacher, driver’s education teacher and coach to many youth of Cumberland County Schools. Coach Jimmy Surles spent many seasons coaching great teams like Ralphs Mobile Homes, Outlaws, and Pig and Chicken at Lamon Street Ballpark. He also enjoyed spending time fishing the coast of Southport, NC with his family and fishing buddies.

In addition to his parents, James “Jimmy” Surles was preceded in death by his beloved wife Betty Strickland Surles, and brother David Surles Jr., nephew Mitchell Surles, father and mother In law: Earl and Hazel Strickland.

James “Jimmy” Surles is survived by his daughters Elaine Gillis of Stedman, NC, and Rhonda Hill (Reggie) of Stedman, NC and Sister: Susan Sherrill (Harry David) of Matthews, NC. Sister in Laws: Martha Surles, Fayetteville, NC. Nellie Ulrich of Stedman,NC. Retta Taylor (Donnie) of Stedman, NC. and Grandchildren: Richard Gillis (Brook) of Beaver Dam, NC. Christen Gillis (Kendall) of Durham, NC. Trey Hill of Stedman, NC. Robert Gillis of Stedman, NC. Page Torres (Rey) of Clarksville, TN. Great Grandchildren: Aniston, Lou, Millie, Raymes as well as many nieces and nephews, special friends. We are extremely appreciative of his Devoted Caregivers: Donna Smith, Chelsea Taylor, Linda Lamb, Cynthia Graham, Savanna Scott, Renee Goss, Billy Bentley, Leslie Putchaconos, Kristin Eyl, Kim Hix, the late Yvonne Johnson and late Kayla Brock and many others.

Due to safety and concern for ALL, the family will have a Celebration of Life to be announced at a later date.

The family will be at the home place 3133 Gillespie Street, Fayetteville NC this Saturday, November 20th 11:00am – 6:00 pm to receive visitors.