Thelma Cogburn Surrett, 88, of Canton, passed away at home on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. A native of Haywood County, she was the daughter of the late Lonnie and Lillie Funk Cogburn. She retired from Blue Ridge Paper after 20 years of service. A member of Burnett Siding Baptist Church, she served as Secretary, Treasurer, and organist. Her faith was strong, as was her love of sitting in her driveway with James waving at people as they went by.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, David Smith, who passed away in 1957; son, Bryan Burch, stepson, Steve Surrett, and sisters, Lucille Heatherly and Inez Henson.

She is survived by her husband, James Surrett; daughter, Kathy Holmes; stepdaughter, Davene Surrett, all of Canton; 7 step grandchildren, and 4 step great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 26 at Wells Funeral Hom of Canton from 7:00pm-9:00pm. A Funeral Service will be held on Sunday, September 27th at Burnett Siding Baptist Church at 4:00pm with Revs. Donnie Henson and Seth Early officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Burnett Siding Baptist Church.