Beasley Cornelius Surles Jr was born November 9, 1946 in Toney, Alabama to the late Ophelia and Beasley Surles Sr. As one of nine siblings, he enjoyed his childhood. After graduating from high school, he moved to Akron, Ohio at a young age. He later joined the military, working as an aircraft mechanic in the Army during the Vietnam War. Beasley also used his skills as a welder for Firestone Foundry, Gilchrist Molding Center, and Kenmore Foundry.

Affectionately known as Junior, Uncle Junior, Beas, and Grandpa, he was often found enjoying the company of family and friends. Whether playing dominoes, dancing, fishing, or telling a tall tale about an alligator, he knew how to have fun. He often came to the rescue when it came to fixing, moving, or just helping in general. If you called, he was there. He made everybody feel special because they were his “favorite right” person. He gave long hugs and big smiles.

Beasley was blessed to meet his love long ago. He married the late Jean Cantrell-Surles with whom he enjoyed over 50 years of companionship.

He is preceded in death by his wife, parents, mother-in-law Evelyn Hendon, daughter & son, Nina Cantrell-Brown and Donnie Cantrell, brother Robert Surles, sisters Willie Mae Freeman, Jean Fugh, and Shirley Hamlet.

Cherishing his memory are his son Melvin (Araya) Cantrell Jr, brothers Howard Hughes (Cuyahoga Falls, OH), Ernest Surles (Chattanooga, TN), sisters Buel Walker (Chattanooga, TN), Patricia (Wayne) Jones (Meridianville, AL), brothers-in-law Kenny Hendon, Nathan Hendon, and sister-in-law Vivian Hendon all of Akron, OH, 13 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, treasured relatives, and friends.