Susan Zivney

Sue Jorden Zivney

Born to Janet and Paul Jorden, Sue Jorden Zivney’s path was guided by her faith in Jesus Christ, and her love for others helped to give the journey meaning.

With eight siblings and two active parents, Sue grew up playing all sorts of games. The family’s yard was ideally suited for outdoor sports, to play basketball, catch, or to engage in other activities.

As a student at Wheaton North High School in a Chicago suburb, Sue played basketball and volleyball. Her dad inspired her competitive nature and coached her to shoot 100 free throws after every basketball practice. Due to her commitment and preparation, she was the point guard that everyone could count on. This trait became a hallmark of Sue’s that transcended sports with family and friends relying on her insights, encouragement, and wise counsel.

While at Baylor University pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in medical arts, Sue met the love of her life, Ben Zivney. With graduation and separate academic paths on the horizon, the couple decided to marry and plan their life together. Sue earned an Executive MBA in accounting from Houston Baptist University, passed her CPA exam, and started a career that spanned corporate and non-profit accounting, education and consulting. While an accounting instructor at Texas A&M University, the couple had their first son, Matthew, soon followed by Daniel.

Sue built her accounting career around family life with church, her son’s sports, Ben’s medical practice and volunteer activities taking priority. She had a knack for minimizing cost while maximizing value, and applied her skills to managing her family’s budget and investments. Often saying that financial planning was her “love language,” she assisted clients with business and tax accounting, and generously provided family and friends with her expert help.

For the past decade, Sue and a small group of friends gathered weekly to study the Bible, share life’s joys and sorrows, and pray for one another. Strengthened by Sue’s leadership, the friendship and support enjoyed by these sisters-in-Christ had a powerful and positive effect on each of their lives and on their families.

One of Sue’s favorite scriptures, John 8:32 says “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” The truth is this: God created us for a purpose, to know and enjoy Him. But our sin, inherited from Adam and Eve, separated us from God. Because of God’s mercy and love for us, He sent Jesus who lived a perfect sin-free life to willingly die in our place and pay the penalty for our sin. Eternal life is a free gift from God to all those who believe in Jesus as their Lord and savior. Saved by grace, through faith in Jesus, not through works was the truth that sustained her.

Sue’s legacy is the many friends and family members who are all better for having known her and include her husband, Ben, son and daughter-in-law Daniel and Eva, son Matthew, mother Janet, mother-in-law Melva, siblings Beth, Debra, Jenny, Jim, Judy, Kris, Paul and Sandy, their spouses and 23 nieces and nephews.

As printed on the Zivney family stationary, Sue embraced one simple motto – leave short notes and long friendships. In 59 years, the notes were just the right length – and our friendships with Sue will long endure in our hearts and memories.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Christian Stewardship Foundation. Donations can be sent c/o Judy Joiner 289 Old Mill Road, Sunnyvale, TX 75182. Please reach out to Krissy Palmer at 512-921-6873 with any questions or for further information about Christian Stewardship Foundation.