Johnny Lee Kidd

Johnny Lee Kidd, 75, was the tenth of eleven children born to James M. and Mattie D. Kidd on November 16, 1949, in Vance, Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Lottie Tennin Flowers; and four brothers, William Henry Kidd, Arthur James Kidd, Robert Earl Kidd, and Samuel Edward Kidd. Johnny lived a blessed life by the grace of God.

Johnny was educated in the Kansas City, Missouri School District, graduating from Central High School in 1968. After high school, he was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam Era in February 1971 - part of one of the largest draft calls in U.S. history. Following his tour of duty, he returned home and resumed his position as an internal auditor at Kansas City Terminal Warehouse. He later began a long career with the United States Postal Service, where he retired after 24 years of dedicated service. In addition, he worked as a part-time Area Transportation Authority bus driver for more than 30 years.

Johnny accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age. He was a faithful member of Greater Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church for over 20 years, under the leadership of Rev. Albert Colbert and later Rev. Joseph Fletcher. There, he served as a member of the Usher Board, Deacon’s Ministry, Brotherhood Ministry, and as a Sunday School teacher.

In August 2003, Johnny was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Doretta S. Kidd. He was previously blessed with three biological children—Michael, Johnny Jr., and Ashley—and gained three additional children through marriage—Duane “Tony,” Patrick Jr., and Monique.

In December 2004, Johnny joined Gethsemane New Testament Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Jehrome B. Randolph, where he continued to serve faithfully and give God the glory, honor, and praise. He served as Chairman of the Deacon Board, Chairman of the Brotherhood Ministry, Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School teacher, Male Chorus member, Van Ministry driver, and was active in the Evangelistic Team, Marriage Ministry, and Harvest Ministry—all while being a caregiver for his sister.

Johnny was a conversationalist and loved to travel all over the world. He loved spending time with his grandkids—playing ping pong and pool, making pancakes for breakfast, and taking them on annual “Grandkids’ Vacations.”

Johnny’s precious memories will forever remain in the hearts of his beloved wife of 22 years, Doretta S. Kidd; his children, Michael Kidd (Kelly) of Tampa, FL; Johnny L. Kidd Jr. of Los Angeles, CA; Ashley Avery (Robert), Duane “Tony” Beard, Patrick A. Smith Jr., and Monique A. Smith (Teon), all of Kansas City, MO; grandchildren, Darius Smith, Londyn Cage, Jaionna Smith, Xavier Mitchell, Jackson Kidd, all of Kansas City, MO; and Victoria Kidd of Tampa, FL; great-grandchildren, Kamilah and Darius Jr.; and a special niece, Naila.

He is also survived by his sisters, Verniece Nelson of Des Moines, IA; Earline Polson, Norene Hall , and Beatrice Stone, all of Kansas City, MO; his brothers, Henry Edward Kidd (Ada) of Kansas City, MO, and William Ray Frazier of Apollo Beach, FL; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.