It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sonja Strand Surratt on October 1, 2024, following a brief illness. Sonja and her identical twin sister, Yvonne Shinaut were born in El Paso on November 1, 1935, to Helene Rogalski and Ove Strand. Born very premature and weighing only 2 pounds at birth, “the twins” were not expected to survive. Beating the odds paved the way for a full and prosperous life of determination and purpose.
Sonja attended Austin High School where she was a cheerleader and a member of the football court. After graduation, she attended Texas Tech University where she and Yvonne were recognized as being two of the top 20 most beautiful co-eds at the school and named La Ventana Beauties. In 1957, she married Bobby Surratt (they later divorced), and they had two children Scott and Tyrey (“Ty”). Sonja’s first job was working as a flight attendant for American Airlines. Following her time with American Airlines, she stayed home to raise Scott and Ty. Once they were grown Sonja decided that she enjoyed being an entrepreneur. First, she owned a creative nut packaging company known as Blue Ribbon Originals. Then, she started an Etiquette Institute where she taught children manners and confidence. Last, she became a horse racing enthusiast who owned and raced horses in El Paso, Ruidoso, and Hobbs.
Her most cherished accomplishment was mother, grandmother, great grandmother and dog Mom. She cared deeply for her family, always putting them first. She showered them with generosity, love and kindness. She rarely told her grandchildren and great grandchildren “no,” and spoiled them beyond belief. Known to her grandchildren and great grandchildren as “Gunga,” she never turned down a request to share time watching a cartoon or backscratching a youngster to sleep. She loved and cared for her dogs as though they were humans, and often fostered dogs in need of a temporary home or care. Until her final day, her two dogs, Cash and Waldo, were the twinkle of her eye.
In her younger days, Sonja was an avid golfer and tennis player, but she was diagnosed with lupus at a young age and had to quit those sports. Her other interests included snow skiing, dancing and spending time with friends. She loved connections with people. She hosted many parties at her home and was always offering another glass of wine. If there was a country western dance floor, she was on it. If there was a local horse race, she was at it. Every gift she received was the best gift ever, every home cooked meal she was given was the best she ever tasted. Her fun personality and beauty (inside and out) lit up the room.
Age never mattered to her. Fitness and health mattered. Staying busy and active mattered. Manners mattered. Frozen cookies for breakfast (or, anytime really) mattered.
Known for her strong will, unwavering faith in God, and love for her family, her loss has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and those whose lives were touched by her.
Preceded in death by her two sons, Scott and Tyrey Surratt and her longtime boyfriend Jay Slone.
Left to cherish her memory are her twin sister, Yvonne Shinaut; her grandchildren, Heather Lindley (Randy), Howard Surratt (Ann), Aaron Surratt (Anna) and Mason Surratt (Stephanie); honorary grandchildren, Stephanie Ramsay (Chris) and Danielle Hutson Word (Ryan); great grandchildren, Jack Surratt, Mack Jobe, Caroline Surratt, James Surratt, Andrew Surratt, Kate Lindley, Corbin Surratt, and Ford Lindley; nephews, Kenny Shinaut and Randy Shinaut (Susie); and, of course, her devoted dogs Cash and Waldo.
Her obituary would not be complete without recognizing her former daughter-in-law, Lori Hutson (Eric) who she loved and adored tremendously.
Pallbearers will be: Dennis Flossi, Steve Lama, Colton Shinaut, Gary Aboud, Jim Volk, and Eric Hutson. Honorary pallbearers are: Scott Warman and Gary Crossland.
Services will be held on October 10, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Martin Funeral Home West (128 Ressler Drive) with Darrell Winters officiating. Graveside service will follow at Memory Gardens of the Valley. For those unable to attend the service, you may view the service online via a live stream by visiting www.martinfuneralhomewest.com and clicking on Sonja Surratt’s obituary. Celebration of life to follow at El Paso Country Club, 5000 Country Club Place.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the El Paso Humane Society in her memory.
