Tyhicia Pita Surur

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tyhicia Pita Surur, lovingly known as “Ty Bug,” on November 16, 2024, at the young age of 26. Tyhicia passed away at her mother’s home in West Valley City, Utah, from an accidental fentanyl overdose after achieving six weeks of sobriety. Born on October 20, 1998, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Peter Surur and Felicia (Terrell) Burnett.

Tyhicia’s bold and rebellious spirit was evident from the moment she entered the world. Her family affectionately remembers her as “a rebel”—a colicky baby who grew into a lively toddler, delighted in announcing her “toots/farts” in public. She was adventurous, fearless, and fiercely independent. As a child, Ty had a knack for making friends everywhere she went and often brought them home to join her sisters, always creating community wherever she was. Tyhicia was deeply passionate about helping others. She began her advocacy work at The Road Home in September 2017, where she served in multiple roles over four years, including Client Advocate, Team Lead, and Kitchen Manager. She touched countless lives through her dedication to serving the unhoused community. Ty later found her true calling working at Copper Hills Youth Center as a Mental Health Advocate and Program Manager. There, she poured her heart into caring for at-risk youth, often referring to them as “my kids” and taking pride in helping them find hope and stability. In addition to her love for helping others, Ty shared an unbreakable bond with her dog, Lulu. As her constant companion and best friend, Lulu brought her comfort, joy, and unconditional love. Tyhicia’s connection with Lulu was a testament to her tender heart and the love she shared with those around her.

Tyhicia is survived by her parents, Peter Surur of Nairobi, Kenya, and Felicia (Terrell) Burnett of West Valley City, Utah; her Sisters, Shakira O’Neal and Wanicia Surur of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Yaya Surur of Kampala, Uganda; her maternal great-grandmother, Carol Jacobsen of Henderson, Kentucky; her grandmother, Judy Jacobsen of West Valley City, Utah; her nieces, Ceaziah and Kamiyah Williams (Salt Lake City, Utah); and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.

Tyhicia is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Eliaba and Monika Pita Surur of Kampala, Uganda, and her maternal grandfather, Richard O’Neal of Columbus, Georgia.

A viewing to honor Tyhicia’s life will be held on November 30, 2024, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Valley View Memorial Park, 4335 West 4100 South, West Valley City, Utah. A celebration of her life will follow at 6:30 p.m. at the Bud Bailey Apartments Community Room at 3970 S. Main St, Millcreek, UT 84107. All who knew and loved Ty are welcome to join in remembering her vibrant spirit, boundless compassion, and the joy she brought to those around her.