David A. Bivens

David A. Bivens, age 79, of Indianapolis, passed away on August 21, 2026. For over 60 years, he was the loving and devoted husband to Tanya R. (Turner) Bivens. David was born on May 20, 1947, in Loudon, Tennessee and was the son of Andrew and Martha Bivens. The Bivens family moved to Indianapolis when David was a toddler. David attended Arsenal Technical HS. He was a founding member and guitarist for The Vultures, and unknown band that he loved nonetheless.

1966 was a big year for David and Tanya as they tied the knot followed quickly by a call from Uncle Sam. David was drafted into the US Army where he served for two years reaching the rank of E-4. David served our county primarily as a cook and he jokingly professed to be the best potato peeler in the armed services. He returned to Tanya in 1968 and they promptly started a large family: sons, David L. (Susan) Bivens and Christopher B. (Mary) Bivens, and daughters Stacey L. (Brian) Hicks and Shannon M. Fikes. David and Tanya have been blessed with 14 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.

David worked in construction and various skilled trades for over 45 years. He was a talented carpenter, remodeled, and jack of all trades. He was a collector of hobbies including woodworking, painting, jewelry making, photography, model trains, cycling, holiday window painting, calligraphy, leather working, guitar playing and singing, and many more. David was the consummate tinkerer. Simply put, David could make something out of nothing and turn trash into treasurers.

David was a devout Christian who loved to spread the gospel to family, friends and anyone who would listen. David did not care about money, status or recognition. He cared about people. He loved to volunteer his time and talents to nursing home ministry and people in need including the Compassion Center. David is best described as compassionate, loyal, honest, humble, and an incredibly loving husband, father and grandfather. David helped build the sanctuary at Lawrence Church of God where his Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 29th at 11am.

Flowers or donations may be sent to The Lawrence Church of God, 4320 N. Post Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46226