Obituary of Diane Sturdivant

DIANE STURDIVANT MCALLEN - It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Diane Furgason “Nonnie” Sturdivant, age 91, on September 24, 2022. Diane was born In Independence, Kansas in 1931 to Dr. Ruben and Florence Furgason. She graduated from Independence High School in 1949, where she was a twirler, Drum Majorette and crowned Queen Neewollah. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education at Tulsa University and remained lifelong friends with her sisters of Kappa Alpha Theta, continuing on to earn teaching certifications at Pittsburg College and University of Colorado, Boulder. And finally a master’s degree in education at North Texas State. Married to Jack Sturdivant, the man whom she said made her knees buckle. They moved to McAllen and raised 3 children. One born every 7 years like the droughts in Kansas. Her house was always filled with love, laughter, the neighbors kids and dogs. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack Sturdivant; parents, Dr. Ruben and Florence Furgason; and brother, James “Jim” Furgason. Diane was a lifelong physical educator. Her teaching career began at San Benito High School, then to McAllen High School and finally Pan American College for another 29 years. She had a passion for her students and colleagues in the Health & Kinesiology Department and touched the lives of so many future educators. She was lover of footlong chili cheese dogs, ice cream and all things fried. And will be remembered for her constant smile and laughter. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy and constant companions. Diane is survived and will be greatly missed by her daughter, Sasha Crane; sons, Scot Sturdivant (Debbie) and Ted Sturdivant; her grandchildren, Taylor & Diego Crane, Samantha Muske (Code), Scarlett Diane Sturdivant, Olyver Sturdivant, Justin Sturdivant (Rose) and Nick Sturdivant (Jessica); seven great grandchildren who all will continue her legacy of spreading love and laughter. A celebration of her life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday October 1, 2022, at Legacy Chapels 4610 South Jackson Road in Edinburg. Her family wishes that donations be made to UTRGV’s Department of Health and Human Performance in her honor and memory in lieu of flowers. Attn: Diane Sturdivant Donations Health Science #31000289. Funeral services are under the direction of Legacy Chapels in Edinburg.