Donald Kidder, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, in Port Arthur, Texas, at the age of 93. Born on June 15, 1933, in Arnaudville, Louisiana, Don built a life centered on family, friendship, hard work, and the simple things he enjoyed most. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
After graduating from Cecilia High School, Don served in the Army and was stationed in California. He married his high school sweetheart, Sybil Taylor, and together they moved to Port Arthur, Texas, where he worked as an Electrician for Gulf Oil. He retired from Chevron in 1989. Retirement did not suit Don for long, and took a handyman position at Little Flower Catholic Church, just a few blocks from his home. He worked there for nearly 10 years alongside his priest, Father Jeremiah McGrath, who became one of his best friends, before retiring for good.
Don enjoyed gardening, working crossword puzzles, reading, and playing Booray & other card games with friends on the weekends. More than anything, he enjoyed time spent with family and friends. Nearly every Sunday, his daughters came over for a friendly game of Mexican Train, a tradition that became a treasured part of family life. Don & Sybil also enjoyed an occasional trip to the casino.
He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Sybil Kidder of Port Acres, and his four daughters: Donna Keddy and her husband, Karl, of Port Acres; Cindy Richard and her husband, Gary, of Port Acres; Carole Kidder of Nederland; and Anna Newcomb and her husband, Tyler, of Lumberton. Don’s legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Amy Soto and her husband, Tony; Jared Walters and his wife, Noelle; Kirsten Soliz and her husband, Eric; Cassie Solis and her husband, Steven; Blake Richard and his wife, Amanda; Spencer Cole and his wife, Mary; and Alaina Abrego and her husband, Julian. He was also blessed with eleven great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his later years.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, John and Louise Kidder; his brother, Francis Kidder; and his sisters, Genevieve Guidry, Aspazie Tate, Mildred Stansbury, and Grace Kidder. He also mourned the loss of his granddaughter, Chelsea Richard, and great-grandson, Ryker Solis. A Rosary will be held at 9:30 am on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, followed by a visitation from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at St. Therese, the Little Flower of Jesus, 6412 Garnet Avenue, Port Arthur, Texas 77640. A Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 11:00 am at the same location. Graveside and entombment will follow the service at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches, Texas.