Janet LaRee Surratt, age 85 - A Natural State Funeral Service & Crematory

Janet LaRee Surratt, known to her family as Mimi, passed away on Friday at the age of 85, according to A Natural State Funeral Service.

A passionate sign language interpreter who entered the world on April 14, 1941, Surratt earned her diploma as part of the inaugural graduating class of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s Interpreter Training Program. Throughout her career, she was recognized by colleagues for her work ethic and her willingness to accept assignments at any hour. Although she retired several times, she reportedly remained an interpreter throughout her life.

Surratt was an active member of her church community, specifically participating in a group of women known as the Soul Sisters. Her personal interests included gardening, flowers, bargain hunting, and her dog, Yoda. She was also noted for her creativity in the kitchen and her ability to listen to others with discretion and without judgment.

Passing away before her were her parents, Louis and Cora Joplin; her sister, Shirley Shreve; her daughters, MaryLou Surratt and Jeannie Hickleheim (Surratt); alongside her grandson, Tanner Surratt.

She is survived by her son, John Surratt, and his wife, Kelly Surratt; granddaughters Donna Gibson and her husband Michael, Jamie Petruzzi and her husband Logan, and Tallulah Surratt; and her nephew, Herbie Shreve, and his wife, Dani. Her surviving great-grandchildren include Jude Gibson, Ezekiel Gibson, Octavia Petruzzi, Alex Petruzzi, Ember Skye, and Keyera Graves.

A service to celebrate her life is scheduled for Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Mosaic Church, located at 6221 Colonel Glenn Road in Little Rock, Arkansas. Cremation arrangements are being handled by A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville, Arkansas.

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