Gordon Vance Kidd, Sr.

Gordon Vance Kidd, Sr., affectionately known as “Sugarlump,” was born on March 4, 1956, to the late Rufus J. and Lillie P. Kidd in El Dorado, Arkansas. He was the beloved youngest of nine siblings and was given his cherished nickname by his eldest sister, Lillie D. Kidd.

Gordon grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and the strong bond of family. Known for his calm demeanor, magnetic charm, infectious laughter, and quick wit, he was often the “icebreaker” in any room. His warm spirit and kind heart made him deeply loved by all who knew him. Gordon enjoyed being doted on by his family and found joy in returning that love tenfold. He was a steadfast believer in the power of family connection, always encouraging togetherness and keeping lines of communication open.

From a young age, Gordon accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at Olive Branch Church in El Dorado. His faith was a guiding light in his life, and he carried it with humility and grace. After making a home in Crossett, Arkansas, he became a member of Gates Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church.

He graduated from El Dorado High School in 1974, where he played as a defensive lineman. After high school, he attended AM&N College in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. After leaving college, he went on to make a lasting impact on everyone he encountered—through friendship, service, and a smile that could brighten anyone’s day.

In 1976, Gordon moved to Crossett, Arkansas, where he became employed by Alltel Telephone Company as an INR technician. This is how many came to know and love him as “the telephone man.” While working there, he formed many lifelong friendships—some so close that he affectionately claimed them as his own children. He earned the respect of both coworkers and upper management through his dedication and strong work ethic, ultimately making this his career. Gordon retired from Alltel after 33 years of service.

On August 1, 1981, Gordon married the love of his life, Marcia “Lucy” Watson. To this union, one son was born: Christian Lloyd Kidd.

Gordon loved all kinds of sports, but he especially enjoyed cheering for his local high school teams, the Crossett Eagles football and baseball teams. He was also an avid Dallas Cowboys fan. He loved sports so much that he coached baseball for many years—even before having a child of his own to coach. After Christian was born and was old enough to play, Gordon proudly coached him throughout his entire Little League baseball career. Gordon loved cooking for friends and family, fishing, traveling, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He took great pride in his cooking—especially his hot water cornbread—and loved it when others bragged about his food.

Gordon transitioned peacefully to be with the Lord on July 7, 2025, at home, surrounded by his family. He is reunited in heaven with his parents, Rufus J. Kidd Sr. and Lillie P. Kidd; two brothers, Nathaniel Kidd and Rufus J. Kidd Jr.; and his beloved son, Gordon V. Kidd Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 44 years, Marcia “Lucy” Kidd; one son, Christian Kidd Sr. (Stephanie); one daughter, Marchandria “Sandy” Sawyer—all of Crossett, AR; and seven grandchildren: Marsavion Kidd (El Dorado, AR), DeVunte Kidd (Dallas, TX), Alexis Lation (Brandon) of Monroe, LA, Isaac Sawyer, J’Nya Williams, Christian Kidd Jr. “CJ,” and Gabriel Kidd (all of Crossett, AR). He also leaves behind four godchildren: Alicia Wilson, Myesha Evans, Tunica Williams, and Joseph Bivens.

Gordon is survived by seven siblings: George Kidd (Sedona) of Dallas, TX; Geraldine Brown (Robert) of Detroit, MI; Lillie D. Kidd, Mary Brown, Dorothy Kidd, Bonita Kidd, and Thelma Kidd—all of El Dorado, AR. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Velma Kidd and LaJoyce James, both of Crossett, AR, and two brothers-in-law, Robert L. Tucker Jr. of Shreveport, LA, and Gregory Watson (Angelia) of Houston, TX. He is lovingly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A special nephew, Christopher J Kidd of Dallas, TX, stood faithfully by Gordon’s side during his illness, offering unwavering support and care until his passing.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Medders Funeral Home in Crossett, AR, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Gordon’s Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Gates Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Gordon will be remembered for his generosity, unwavering love for his family, and the joy he brought into every room. His legacy of love, laughter, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew and cherished him.

Obituary written and submitted by Gordon's beloved son, Christian.

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