Dates
Clarence Edward “Ed” Surface passed from this life to eternity on June 17, 2026, at age 73. Born in Oklahoma City to William Dean Surface and Juanice Hill Surface, Ed and his older brother attended elementary and secondary school in Del City, Oklahoma. An accomplished musician throughout high school, he garnered many awards that inspired his path toward becoming a professional musician and educator.
Ed earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a doctorate degree from Texas Tech University. He also attended the University of Oklahoma and University of Houston.
In 1977, Ed joined the music faculty at Angelo State University (ASU), San Angelo, Texas. Prior to his appointment at ASU, he performed with a variety of musical acts, including such notable popular artists as B.J. Thomas, Clark Terry, Harry Connick Sr., and Anita Bryant. Playing trombone and tuba, he also performed with the famed Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus. Ed also toured throughout Europe, Canada, and the United States performing with a variety of entertainers and ensembles.
During his 40-year tenure at Angelo State University, Ed taught a multitude of courses, directed the ASU Brass Choir, and served as acting Chair of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts. For many years, he led the ASU Jazz Ensemble in a series of successful performances and travels. Highly esteemed among former students and faculty colleagues, Ed’s teaching legacy left its mark as evidenced by the many successful careers of educators and performers he nurtured.
For many years, Ed served as Principal Tuba of the San Angelo Symphony Orchestra. Upon occasion, he was called to perform in other orchestras throughout West Texas including those in Lubbock, Abilene, and Big Spring. He also did some occasional studio work in Dallas. As a featured soloist on an exchange program in Chihuahua, Mexico, he brought great delight to the audience through his performance of “Tubby the Tuba.” Ed was active in the music life of San Angelo and the Concho Valley playing for various events, church services, private functions, and a wide variety of symphonic, jazz, and chamber music concerts.
Ed is survived by his brother, William Dean Surface Jr. (Patricia) of Houston and their two children, Dean Surface (Courtney) of Waco, Texas, and Jami Lupold of Houston. Nieces include Kennedy and Mckinley Surface of Waco.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, 10:00 a.m., at Harper Funeral Home, 2606 Southland Blvd, San Angelo. Graveside service will follow at Fairmount Cemetery, 1120 W. Avenue N, San Angelo.
Family and friends may share their condolences at www.harper-funeralhome.com.