James Kidd

James R. Kidd of Gordonville finished his 96-year journey through this life, entering his peaceful heavenly eternal home Sunday, Feb. 12, 2017, at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau, with his family by his side.

He was born March 10, 1920, at Arbor, the son of Adam H. and Gladys A. Beck Kidd.

James and Rita L. Hitt were united in marriage Nov. 27, 1947, at Rum Branch. They were married 69 years.

James was a member of Connection Point General Baptist Church in Jackson.

He served his Lord faithfully as deacon, Sunday-school teacher and wherever needed.

He was known for his special gift of woodworking, making many things for several different churches.

He worked into his 90s in his woodworking shop, making beautiful gifts for family and friends.

He did all things well. He was also a skilled carpenter, building his own homes. He was a member of the Carpenters Union Local 1770.

He was a member of the SEMO District Fair Board.

James was an honorable discharged corporal of the U.S. Marine Corps, having served from 1943 to 1946 during World War II.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, sports and being at family gatherings, enjoying his grandchildren and beating everyone playing checkers.

Survivors include his wife, Rita Kidd of Gordonville; a son, Kenneth W. (Janie) Kidd of Arbor; a daughter, Rebecca Ann (Harold) Nelson of Clearfield, Iowa; five grandchildren, Brian (Susan) Nelson of Blocton, Iowa, Allison (Aaron) Angle of Blakesburg, Iowa,; Clayton Nelson of Lenox, Iowa, Jessica (Kevin) Mier of Scott City and Wyatt W. Kidd of Arbor; and eight great-grandchildren, Cameron, Courtney, Austin, Alan, Cedric, Cassidy, Colby and Brenna.

He was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings, Myrtle Cox, Lucy Kidd, Hazel Hitt, Claude Kidd, Lawrence Kidd and Lloyd Kidd.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Morgan Funeral Chapel in Advance, Missouri.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the chapel, with the Rev. Chris Vaught officiating. Burial will follow at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Southeast Hospice or the Missouri Veterans Home.