Dr. YKeiah Michaé Surratt Lawrence, 33, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Atrium Health-Main in Charlotte, NC.
Born on July 5, 1992, YKeiah was the beloved daughter of Michelle Hosch-Chambers (Anthony Chambers) and YKeith Surratt. She was a devoted wife to Miles Lawrence and a proud mother to her cherished daughter, Madison Jordyn Lawrence. She is also survived by her sister, YKeilah Surratt, and her nephew, Zahmir Leach. In addition, she leaves behind a loving circle of godparents, god-siblings, godchildren, and extended family who adored her deeply.
YKeiah was educated in Cleveland County Schools and graduated from Crest High School, where she served as Cheerleading Captain and was known for her leadership, energy, and determination. She continued her academic journey at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro before pursuing advanced studies at Liberty University, where she earned her Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Elementary Education. She achieved the distinguished title of Dr. YKeiah Surratt Lawrence through dedication, sacrifice, and an unshakable belief in her calling to education. In 2021, she was honored as Teacher of the Year at Graham Elementary.
She was a devoted and active member of Palmer Grove Baptist Church, where she loved attending Sunday School and was excited to be a part of the Circle 31 Women’s Ministry.
With a passion for shaping young minds, Dr. Lawrence devoted her career to teaching. Her work began with YMCA Black Achievers and continued through La’Petite Academy, Graham Elementary, Elizabeth Elementary, and James Love Elementary. Most recently, she served with excellence as a second-grade teacher at Township Three Elementary School. Dr. Lawrence was a transformative educator who inspired students, colleagues, and families alike. Her impact on Cleveland County’s educational community is both profound and lasting.
A proud and active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she was initiated into the Shelby Alumnae Chapter on April 1, 2023, as part of the Fabulous Fierce 15. She held the distinguished position of #1 ACE, carrying the line name “Resilient.” In true Ace fashion, she set the tone, carried the torch, and led with strength, service, and determination.
Dr. Lawrence lived a life defined by faith, perseverance, and love. She was small in stature but mighty in presence—radiant, strong, compassionate, and unforgettable. Her courage, her brilliance, and her commitment to her family and community leave a legacy that will continue to shape generations.
She will be remembered as a devoted daughter, a loving wife, a protective sister, a phenomenal mother, an exceptional educator, and a woman whose light touched every path she crossed.
Her life was a gift. Her impact is immeasurable. Her legacy will live on forever.Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 12:30 PM at Shoal Creek Baptist Church. Burial will take place at Palmer Grove Baptist Church. The family will receive friends on Thursday, from 11:00 AM until 12:00 Noon at the church. ( Note: A special service will follow prior to the service starting at 12:30 PM. Guests will not be able to greet the family or enter into the sanctuary during the special service.) Additionally, the family will receive friends on Wednesday night from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at S. T. Enloe Memorial Chapel (Enloe Mortuary) and Tuesday, November 18th from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM at 100 Billet Circle in Earl, NC.
The service will be livestreamed from Enloe Mortuary’s Facebook page starting at 12:30 PM on Thursday.
Directions:
Ajai Grady sent Pink Tribute Spray for YKeiah Surratt Lawrence - November 17, 2025
Sonya Pressley-Adams sent Red and White Handled Basket for YKeiah Surratt Lawrence - November 16, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days to come. May God continue to bless and keep you all 🙏🏽
My deepest condolences to Dr. Lawrence's family for her loss. My granddaughter had her for 1st grade . My granddaughter loved and enjoyed her. We are happy our granddaughter had such a caring loving teacher as Dr. Lawrence. I will pray for her family.
My heart is just broken for the loss of this beautiful, sweet girl. I had the privilege of knowing her going to school and cheering with my daughter. Y'Keiah was a literal ray of joy and light and the world will be a litter darker without her. Praying so hard for her husband, daughter and the entire family. Love, peace and prayers going up for all of you.
Many prayers for YKeiah's entire family. May God give you strength and comfort today and in the many days ahead.
Sending prayers up to her Husband, baby, and all family and friends. SIP beautiful cuz.
Prayers to the whole family in this difficult time!God be with you from Jasmine and myself 🙏
My prayers and condolences goes out to all the families of one precious YKeiah Surratt Lawrence ,and may the Lord comfort you all through this heart felt time.
Sending prayers and love. She was a wonderful lady. I remember you from a child and cheerleading with Krisia.
To theSurratt and Lawrence family may god be with you all during these times. There is nothing to big that God can't handle so Miles look to God for all your help.
My deepest condolences, may you find strength, comfort ,and peace in the days ahead.
Please accept our sincere condolences to you and your family during this challenging period. We understand that this is a difficult time, and our thoughts are with you as you navigate through it. Sending Prayers and Love!
To the Family I'm sending Love and prayers Ykeiah was a loving person even from the very first time we meet her 🕊️💔😘
My sincere condolences to you YKeith and the rest of your loved ones. I will be praying for strength and comfort.
Our sincerest condolences to the Surratt and Lawrence family. Y'Keiah was such a beautiful soul whose light touched everyone around her. May you find comfort, strength, and peace during this incredibly difficult time. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." — Psalm 34:18
May God wrap His loving arms around your family and guide you through the days ahead.
Shawn & Jamara Adams
Heartfelt sorry to Miles, Madi, the entirely family I pray your strength, peace, love, God's blessing .
You have our prayers and deepest sympathy! Chris & Tim Guest
My condolences and prayers are with you all at this difficult time may the Lord bring comfort to you all in this challenging time 🙏🏽💜😇😭
Thoughts and prayers 🙏 to Michelle Chambers
We extend our deepest condolences to the the families. May God comfort you and uphold you in these days to come. Your faith and trust in God will keep you .A very beautiful soul who has left an example to many .God is a keeper. He is our Father who knows and cares. Peace and Blessings. 🙏🏽❤️🤟🏾. Roger/Suzette Ross and family 🙏🏽❤️🤟🏾
Peace and Blessings, When they say let your light shine brightly like a pearl, they were talking about you. A joy to everyone who knows you and the little time my cuz T.Lee and I had to spend with you all, the focus was unreal. And it showed when you became a Doctor. MILES knew you were going to be more than his bestfriend, he claimed you as wife early. A couple a lot in our city can learn from when it comes to showing real love. You will be missed. -> Miles we are keeping you and the family in prayer always 🙏🏾 Keep your head up, and you know the city got plenty of Uncs to be there for Madi. 🙌🏾 Always with Love, The Shaw Family (T.Lee & Family)
Sending my heartfelt sympathy to the Surratt and Lawrence families. May God continue to give you strength today and in the days to come.
My sincerest condolences to the Hosch, Surratt, and Lawrence families during their time of loss. YKeiah was such a bright and positive light. I watched her grow into an amazing young woman, being particularly admirable of her confidence, intelligence, and sweet spirit. Heaven has definitely gained an angel. Rest in paradise, sweet cousin.
Prayers and heartfelt condolences rih 🙏 Constance Wilson Family Friends And Neighbors!!!!
My prayers and Condolences to the Family may God surround you with His Comfort and Love.
On behalf of the Cherryville High School Basketball Family, we extend our deepest condolences to the Surratt and Lawrence families. Our hearts break with yours during this difficult time. Please know that we are lifting you all in prayer and surrounding you with love and support. Coach Lawrence, your strength and leadership have impacted so many of us, and we are holding you close as you navigate this tremendous loss.
With heartfelt sympathy, Coach Griggs
Our prayers are with you all.YKeiah was a sweet young lady.Miles and Madi,the entire Surratt and Lawrence family,we love you all,Ulysses and Bridget Tuft
To the Family of Ykeiah,
My heart goes out to you during this incredibly difficult time. Ykeiah was a beautiful soul whose presence touched so many people. May you find comfort in the love she shared, the memories she leaves behind, and the strength that comes from being surrounded by those who care.
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you peace, comfort, and healing in the days ahead.
With deepest sympathy, KeeKee, Keyona, & Lay'ona❤️🙏🏾
On behalf of the Surratt and Lawrence family, we the Pryor family would like to extend our sincere prayers and condolences to you all. We uphold you all in prayer and love, as you continue to be impacted by this devastating loss of your beloved YKeiah Surratt Lawrence. To Miles, we pray that you and your beautiful daughter will continue to find comfort, peace, love, strength, and courage as you continue to fight through the loss of your lovely, beautiful wife, YKeiah Surratt Lawrence. What a beautiful soul that earth has lost and has no sorrow, that earth can't heal from heaven's gain.
Sincerely In Love, Pastor Nicole Pryor and Family
Heaven has gained a beautiful angel. I'm can't even get the words out I wanna say, I'm going to miss you so much Keiah, Your smile, your presence, just being around you was so much joy. My prayers go out to Th Lawrence/Surratt family. Fly High cousin will miss you dearly😭
My deepest condolences to the family of the Surratt. I didn't get a chance to meet her but knowing her grandmother Angie .I know she was a beautiful soul. My deepest sympathy to the family.
I will never have the right words to say at a time like this! All I know is heaven have gained a great person/angel. Heaven really couldn't wait! I'm praying for everyone! Pray God grant you some type of peace at a time like this!
My Sincere Condolences to the Surratt and Lawrence Families. May Our GOD Wrap HIS Loving ARMS around Each of YOU during and after your hours of Bereavement. Praying for you All
An angel that gained her wing to fly to her heavenly home. I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm thinking of you and Madi during this difficult time. My deepest sympathy are here for you and your family. I'm here for you. May God Bless you.
Sending Condolences to the Lawrence Family. Rest in Peace, your kind sweetness will never be forgotten...🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.