Billy Joe Dunivan

SWINTON, Mo. — Billy Joe Clois Dunivan, 86, of Swinton passed away Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023, at Aspire Senior Living in Advance, Missouri.

He was born April 5, 1937, near Zadock, Missouri, the son of William Lesley and Georgia Maybelle Page Dunivan.

Billy Joe spent many years working as a construction grade checker; he was a well-known name in the local construction industry. For more than 50 years, he was a proud and dedicated member of Laborers' Local 1104 in Cape Girardeau.

In his spare time, he managed his family's farm in Swinton. His favorite time of the year was hay-cutting season. He was frequently found in many neighboring fields, always lending a helping hand and his time to friends.

For many years he had been a member of Oak Ridge Baptist Church in Zadock.

Upon his retirement, he enjoyed watching every St. Louis Cardinals baseball game on television. He also enjoyed taking drives to check on his friends. Billy Joe's role of devoted father and grandfather was by far his proudest accomplishment, and he served that role exceptionally well. He was a regular fixture in many gymnasiums, baseball fields and schools, proudly watching and quietly supporting his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include a son, Dennis Joe (Cathy) Dunivan of Lowndes, Missouri; three daughters, Debbi (Brad) Middleton of Advance, Tina (Chris Heisserer) Robinett of Advance and Kara (Brad) Younger of Swinton; a sister, Joyce Lewis of Imperial, Missouri; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and a host of nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson; a granddaughter; three brothers, Chester, Lester and Edison Dunivan; and two sisters, Vercie Cooper and Lois Coleman.

A visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 30, at Morgan Funeral Chapel in Advance.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31, at the chapel, with the Rev. Eddie Dunivan and Stewart Dunivan officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Zadock.