On Thursday, May 2, the Guilford County Board of Commissioners is going to take time at the start of the meeting to remember and pay respect to the widely varied and civic-oriented life of Ronnie Surgeon, Sr., who served as a deputy sheriff, the Mayor Pro-Tem of Pleasant Garden – and who was probably responsible for at least one of the meals you’ve had in your life.
Guilford County Commissioner Frankie Jones, Jr. will read the resolution and a framed copy will be given to surviving family members. The family is also likely to say a few words about Surgeon, who passed away on March 18 of this year at the age of 71.
A graduate of Dudley High School, he later earned a degree in political science from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University,
A young Surgeon began his career as a Guilford County Sheriff’s Department deputy, while later in life he served as Mayor Pro-Tem of Pleasant Garden, a Commissioner of the Pleasant Garden Fire Department and a volunteer for the Guilford County School system.
But he was perhaps most known for his love of cooking, which the resolution points out “led to food service management, becoming a McDonald’s franchise owner and operator, and holding management positions at O’Henry BBQ, Holiday Inn Restaurant, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Krystal Burgers, and Guilford County Schools.”
At his church, he literally did it all – serving as a trustee, an usher, a choir member, a Sunday School teacher, and he took on other duties at the church as well.
The resolution notes that Surgeon was “extremely active in the community,” and it continues, “Whereas, Mr. Surgeon was known for his work ethic, empathy, compassion, and dignity, and this beloved patriarch dedicated his life to community endeavors, civic engagement, and local politics to make our county a better place for us all, and his life is an outstanding example to all citizens of Guilford County… Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that the Guilford County Board of Commissioners expresses its appreciation for the full and productive life of Mr. Ronnie Surgeon, Sr.; offers its condolences and best wishes; and that a copy of this resolution be presented to his family as a symbol of gratitude for his leadership skills, culinary talents, and dedicated civic service to both country and community.”
Prayers for Mr. Surgeon, who’s life well lived should stand as an example for all of us.
Well said.
During the summer of 1979 I was a 17 year old working as a crew member at the McDonalds on Cone Blvd. and Hwy 29. Ronnie was my boss and was well-liked by all who worked with and for him. RIP Ronnie.