DURHAM - Ronnie Leon Sturdivant, a well-known entrepreneur was killed on August 30, 2008. Ronnie, a faithful servant of the Lord, was born February 11, 1956 to the late Andrew James (Jay) and Edna McClendon Sturdivant in Polkton, NC.

He graduated form Bowman High School in Wadesboro and attended Durham Business College receiving an Associates degree and graduated from North Carolina Central University earning a degree in Business Administration. He was a faithful Christian who served as a mentor for countless people both young and old. He was an entrepreneur, author, speaker and a strong family man. He was the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions including, but not limited to, Minority Business of the Year Award, The Trendsetters Award, Atlanta Regional Minority Service Firm of the Year Award from the US Department of Commerce, Outstanding Community Service Award, Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Positive Image Award and recognized as one of the '25 People to Watch in the Triangle' by the News and Observer Newspaper'.

During his lifetime, Ronnie helped many others to lead empowered successful lives. He employed hundreds of people and taught money strategies to many. He also hosted a contingency of world-class athletes from around the globe for the Pan African Games, as well as, served as wealth management presenter at the Blacks in Government Annual National Conference.

Known for his visionary qualities, unyielding determination and business ingenuity, Ronnie's charismatic smile, energetic and passionate work ethics inspired people of all walks of life. His mantra''Don't Ever Give Up!'. He will be missed enormously by all those whose lives he touched.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 6, 2008 at 1 p.m. from the Cole Mill Road Church of Christ, 1617 Cole Mill Road, Durham. Interment will follow in Beechwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ronnie Sturdivant Memorial Education Fund 212 N. Corcoran Street Durham, NC 27701.