John E. Surette, a native of Pensacola, FL and a resident of Panama City, FL, passed away on Saturday, October 1, 2022, in Daphne, AL, at the age of 80.
John was a graduate of Pensacola Catholic High School, class of 1960, and was an alumnus of the University of Southern Mississippi, class of 1964. After college, John joined the Navy and became a Naval Lieutenant working in security communications on the USS Hancock and completed two tours in Vietnam. While in the Navy he received the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, Navy Unit Commendation and two Vietnam Service Medals. After his time in the Navy, he worked for the State of Florida as a Parole and Probation Officer and Manager. During his employment with the State of Florida, John was one of the founders of the First Step Program in Bay County. John was an avid reader, outdoorsman, and football fan. He lived life to the fullest during his retirement taking several Caribbean Cruises and making trips to the boats in Mississippi with his wife and friends. John loved spending time with family and friends, and especially his granddaughters.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Clement Franklin Surette and Elizabeth Margaret McCullough Surette.
He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Maureen L. Ryan Surette; children, Paul Surette of Panama City, FL and Dianne Surette (Jamie) Bunner of Daphne, AL; grandchildren, Aubrey and Ashley Bunner; sister Betsy (John) Waas and their 5 children; his best friend of 63 years, Charles Moss; breakfast buddy, Ken Black; friend and hunting buddy Paul Fuder; and his two precious dogs, Duke and Dexter.
A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at St. John’s Evangelist Catholic Church, 1008 Fortune Avenue in Panama City, FL 32401. Following the mass, a celebration of John’s life will be held at Big Mama’s on the Bayou, 620 West Beach Dr.,Panama City, FL. until 3:00 p.m.
The family asks that memorial donations be made in John’s name to a local ASPCA and/or to Amedisys Foundation at 3854 American Way, Suite A, Baton Rouge, LA 70816.
Expressions of condolence for the family may be made at www.hughesfh.com. Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
A beautiful tribute to a wonderful man…
John was a good man and friend worked with him at the State Probation Office. He was a friend to all. He cared about the success of his clients.
So very Sorry for your loss and you all are in my heart thoughts and prayers. Send my love hugs and kisses.🌹❤️💯🤗😘
I loved working with John, but I mostly loved him as a friend. John was a proud man, very humble, and just a very good man with a sweet spirit! John will be missed, and I am so sorry for the family’s loss.
Hi, ya’ll. Very sorry to hear of John’s passing. All of us who worked with him, loved and respected him. He was so understanding and kind to everyone. We will all miss him. Sorry that I was unable to attend his memorial and celebration. Will keep ya’ll in our thoughts and prayers.