Fred Donald Kidd, Sr.

Fred Donald Kidd’s story began on January 21, 1952, when he was born to the late Armentha Kelsey-Kidd and Fred Douglas Kidd in McGehee, Arkansas. Fred Kidd, Sr., was raised with strong family values. He found his place early on at First Missionary Baptist Church, where he was baptized at an early age.

As a young man, he walked the halls of Carroll High School and finished his educational journey at JobCorps where he received many certifications within various job fields. Those who knew him understood that he carried a steady strength and calm presence that spoke for himself. He was the kind of person who did not have to say much, but his character, loyalty, and pride left lasting impressions wherever life took him.

More than anything, Fred loved his family. His children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a source of pride and joy, and he found happiness in watching them grow and build lives of their own.

On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, Fred’s journey on this earth came to a peaceful close as he answered the Master’s call and entered eternal rest. He was welcomed home by those who had gone before him: his parents, Armentha Kelsey-Kidd and Fred Douglas Kidd; and siblings, Doris Kidd, Clella Kidd, Percy Kidd, Douglas Kidd, and John Kidd.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his daughters, Jacqueline Kidd, Cassandra Gipson-Mitchell (Sedric), Shemeka Gipson-Armstrong (Chadwick Sr.), and Jessica Gipson (David), all residing in Monroe, LA. He also leaves his sons, Fred D. Kidd, Jr., Curtis Gipson (Shirley), and Donald Gipson, all residing in Monroe, LA, and Reginald Gipson (Janitra) of Baton Rouge, LA. He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He also leaves a fiancée, Florine Iseah, who he loved so much.

He also leaves behind three sisters, Mary Ruth Newton of Richmond, California, Juanita Jordan (Yustin) of Redfield, AR, and Julia Kidd of Monroe, LA; one brother, Ivory Kidd of Monroe, LA; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever hold on to the memories they shared with him.

Fred D. Kidd, Sr.’s story is one of love, quiet strength, and meaningful moments that helped him created the history he made, and the love he gave will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though he is no longer here in presence, his legacy will continue to live on in hearts and the minds of those who cherished him.

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