Carl J. Surrett

Carl J Surrett, a loving husband, devoted father, and highly respected Attorney, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, at the age of 81. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, who cherish the memories of his kindness, generosity, unwavering spirit, and remarkable accomplishments. 

Carl was born on May 15,1943, in Charleston, WV to Morgan Surrett and Reba Caudill Surrett. He was an avid athlete as a forward in basketball, baseball pitcher and running back and defensive lineman in football through high school earning regional and state recognition. He earned a Football Scholarship to Vanderbilt University where he was scouted by several professional football teams. Carl chose to pursue his passion for law and graduated from Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University with his JD. He went on to a highly successful career specializing in Domestic Law, where he distinguished himself as the nation’s leading authority on wiretap admissibility in domestic litigation in the early 1980’s. He was also recognized as “The CSRA’s Toughest Divorce Attorney” by Augusta Magazine and honored for over 50 years of service to the legal profession by the Georgia Bar Association. His professionalism, tenacity and compassion were the keys to his long success.

Carl’s dedication to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family. Carl married Sybil Williams Ligon on May 2, 1992. Together they built an open and loving home for their adult children and their families. He was a supportive and loving father, always encouraging his children to pursue their dreams and providing them with unwavering love, guidance, and support. 

Beyond his professional and family life, Carl was a member of the Augusta Country Club, an avid golfer and loved adventure, including snow skiing and travel in general. He loved the Friday Night Club at the country club and the Sky Valley and Fripp Island family vacations. Carl found special joy in teaching his children and grandchildren how to play and improve their golf game. 

Carl was a man of strong character and integrity. He was known for his compassion, loyalty, honesty, and was a faithful friend to many. He served on several boards of directors including a term serving as Treasurer for the Augusta Country Club and a member of their Membership Committee. Carl was always there to lend a helping hand. 

Carl is survived by his beloved wife, Sybil, his children, Bradford W. Surrett (Anita), J. Hylton Surrett (Sarah), and Stephanie Ligon Johnston (Wendell); grandchildren, Alex Surrett Eberhardt (Jamie), Morrighan Surrett Wingate (Zachary), Rowan C Surrett, Owen H. Johnston, Mary Oliff Johnston, Mia A. Surrett, Hannah R. Surrett; and great grandson, Aizen A. Eberhardt.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 7th at 11am at The Church of the Good Shepard, 2230 Walton Way, Augusta, Ga. 30904. There will be a reception in the Parish Hall following. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to John W. Kelley MD Endowment through the Piedmont Augusta Foundation, 2260 Wrightsboro Rd. Augusta, GA 30904. 

Carl will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, loyalty, generosity, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, especially his family.