Sabrina L. Baker Author/Photographer
Since 1951, Surry Communications has played a vital role in keeping neighbors, families, and businesses connected across Surry County. What began as a mission to bring reliable communication services to rural communities has grown into a forward-thinking organization focused on advanced fiber technology while maintaining the same personal service that defined its early years.
From the beginning, the vision behind Surry Communications was simple but meaningful. At a time when many larger providers overlooked rural areas, the company worked to ensure local residents had access to dependable communication services. More than seven decades later, that same purpose continues to guide the company’s growth.
Richie Parker shared that being locally owned carries a deeper meaning for the team. “We live, work, and raise our families here, which means our responsibility to this community goes far beyond providing a service.” Decisions are made by people who understand the needs of the area firsthand, creating a sense of pride and accountability that extends well beyond technology.
While the tools and platforms have evolved dramatically over the years, the company’s focus on customer care has remained constant. What began with traditional telephone services has expanded into advanced broadband and fiber connectivity, helping residents and businesses stay connected in ways that were once unimaginable. Parker noted that customers are never viewed as numbers, explaining that “our customers are not just accounts. They are our neighbors,” a philosophy that continues to shape how the company approaches service every day.
Reliable internet access has become essential to daily life, particularly in rural areas. For families, connectivity supports education, communication, and access to important resources. For businesses, it creates opportunities to grow and compete in an increasingly digital world. Healthcare providers now rely on strong networks to offer telehealth services, allowing patients to receive care without traveling long distances.
Surry Communications continues to invest in modern infrastructure, proactive maintenance, and local expertise to ensure dependable service, with a local team monitoring the network closely and responding quickly when challenges arise.
The expansion of fiber internet has transformed how people live and work throughout Surry County. Faster and more reliable connections have supported the growth of remote work, strengthened online learning opportunities for students, and improved access to essential services such as telehealth.
As fiber construction continues to expand, Surry Communications remains focused on reaching areas that have historically struggled with slow or limited internet access. Through careful planning and strategic investment, the organization continues to adopt new technology while keeping service affordable for local families and businesses.
Reliable connectivity also plays a significant role in the success of small businesses, healthcare providers, and educational institutions. By delivering high speed internet and dependable service, Surry Communications helps local entrepreneurs grow, supports remote work opportunities, and contributes to the overall economic health of the community.
One powerful example of the company’s dedication came during a recent winter storm when a concerned daughter struggled to reach her ninety-year-old father who lives alone outside Pilot Mountain. After contacting customer service, the Surry Communications team quickly identified a fiber issue and dispatched a technician despite difficult road conditions. Within minutes of arriving, service was restored, allowing the family to reconnect during a stressful time.
Experiences like this highlight what Parker described as the heart of their mission, noting that reliable connection is not only about technology but about people being able to reach the ones they love.
Customers calling Surry Communications can expect friendly, knowledgeable support from local professionals who understand the area and its needs. Having a team based in the community builds trust and accountability, creating relationships that go beyond a typical service provider.
This dedication extends into community involvement as well. Each year, Surry Communications supports local events, schools, and organizations while organizing food and toy drives that benefit families in need. During festivals and large gatherings, the company deploys a mobile fiber connectivity unit to enhance network capacity and provide improved bandwidth for attendees.
A recent partnership with the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce, Mount Airy Tourism Development Authority, Mount Airy Downtown, Inc., and the City of Mount Airy introduced a Calix SmartTown Wi Fi network, allowing residents and visitors to access reliable wireless internet during everyday activities and major events such as Mayberry Days and the Autumn Leaves Festival.
Looking ahead, Surry Communications remains focused on expanding fiber infrastructure and exploring new ways to serve the community. Continued investment in connectivity will open doors for residents, businesses, and future generations, ensuring that Surry County remains connected to opportunity.
For those considering a local provider, Parker emphasized that choosing Surry Communications means choosing reliability, personal service, and a company that reinvests in the community it serves.
By blending innovation with local commitment, Surry Communications continues to strengthen the bonds that keep Surry County connected.
As the organization celebrates its 75th anniversary, this legacy of service, innovation, and community commitment continues to shape its vision for the future.
