Jesse D. Sturdivant

Jesse David Sturdivant, age 94, of Bluffton, South Carolina, passed away in 2026. He was born on September 26, 1931, in Glendora, California, to Jesse D. and Elizabeth Muench Sturdivant.

David met the love of his life, Shirley, at the First Christian Church in Glendora while singing in the church choir, where Shirley’s father served as choir director. Their love was immediate and enduring. They were married on December 23, 1949, and shared a remarkable marriage of more than 72 years, a testament to their devotion and faith.

David dedicated his entire professional career to surveying. He began working for the County of Los Angeles, later moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, and ultimately returned to California, where he worked for the County of Sacramento Department of Public Works. A Licensed Professional Land Surveyor, David retired as head of the Surveys Section after more than 30 years of service.

Faith and music were central to David’s life. He sang in church choirs alongside family members at several churches in California and Colorado, including First Christian Church, Bethany Baptist Church, Foothill Farms Baptist Church, Sunrise Community Church, and Carmichael Baptist Church.

Sports were another lifelong passion. David played and coached softball, basketball, and volleyball, and he took great joy in watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren participate in sports, traveling far and wide to support them. In retirement, he enjoyed metal detecting and delighted in uncovering unexpected treasures.

David was preceded in death by his beloved wife Shirley, his parents, and his brother Richard. He is survived by his sister Dorothy Lienau; his children Gail Pothour (Steve), Barbara Landis (Phil), Sue Stone (Cliff), Patty Sturdivant, and Mark Sturdivant (April); ten grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A man of integrity, kindness, and generosity, David will be deeply missed. His faith assures those who loved him that this is not an ending, but the beginning of a beautiful reunion and eternal journey.

A celebration of life service will be held on January 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Sauls Funeral Home, 90 Simmonsville Road, Bluffton, South Carolina. Visitation begins at 10:30 a.m. inside the chapel.