Memorial plaque and tree honor late teacher at Pisgah Forest Elementary

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Sept. 29, 2026

Information provided by Transylvania County Schools

This summer a memorial tree and plaque were placed at Pisgah Forest Elementary to honor Valerie Surrette, a retired Transylvania County educator who died Jan. 22, 2026, after a period of declining health.

Mrs. Surrette spent her final years of service to Transylvania County Schools as a special education teacher at Strauss and Pisgah Forest elementary schools .

Pictured left to right: Janet Tinsley, Mary Palmer, Sonya Morris, Tina Brown, Porsha Smith, Carolyn Peterson, Mary Baynard and Zeffrey Surrette
Transylvania County Schools

Fellow educators who worked with her donated to create a lasting tribute to recognize Surrette’s dedication and compassion for students. Her son Zeffrey Surrette attended August’s memorial dedication at Pisgah Forest Elementary with her former colleagues.

The tree will grow taller with each school year and the plaque beside it will tell students and staff about the care Mrs. Surrette gave to her students for years to come.