Jirden Lee Dunivan, was born in Senath, Missouri  February 21, 1936 and grew up in the farming community of Bucoda, Missouri. After completing high school in 1952 in Senath, and a brief time on the family cotton farm, he enlisted in the United States Army in 1954 and was stationed in Japan; discharged in 1956 and enrolled at Arkansas State College receiving his BSE in 1962.

Jirden served two years as Principal of the Bucoda School and two years, at Senath/Hornersville school before accepting a position in 1965 with the Missouri State Department of Social Services. Retiring in 1998 with 33 years of service.

Jirden enjoyed his family, many lasting friends, golf, bowling and cards.

He is preceded in death by his parents:  William Oliver and Eunice Parker Dunivan, wife of 28 years, Wanda Johnson Dunivan; brothers: Edward Dunivan and Lindell Dunivan, sisters Joyce Dunivan Roberts and Donna Dunivan Hutchison McNair.

Surviving is wife: Laurie Sutton Dunivan of the home. Son: Jerry (Rebekah) Dunivan of O'Fallon, Missouri; granddaughter: Chloe Marie Dunivan; sister: Faye Dunivan (Richard) Rice of Kennett, sister-in-law: Ruth Dunivan of Jackson, MO. and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Bonus family: David (Terina) Sutton, Leslie (Allan) Andrews, Allison (Dylan) Brown, Trevor (Madison) Sutton, Seth (Shilyn) Sutton, Anniston Sutton and Adella Sutton.

Graveside Services will be 1:00 PM Friday, March 27, 2026 at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Kennett, Missouri. Pastor Jim Davis officiating. Honored to serve as  Honorary pallbearers: Alan Andrews, David Sutton, Seth Sutton  and Trevor Sutton.

McDaniel Funeral Service of Kennett will be in charge of the arrangements