Remembering a Football Legend: Obituary of Coach Roy Kidd

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a true football legend, Coach Roy Kidd. A revered figure in the world of American collegiate football, Roy Kidd leaves behind an enduring legacy of success, mentorship, and dedication to the sport he loved. He passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91.

A Remarkable Coaching Career

Born on December 4, 1931, in Corbin, Kentucky, Roy Kidd’s journey in football began as a standout three-sport athlete at Corbin High School. His exceptional talent and dedication paved the way for his arrival at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), where he excelled as a record-setting Little All-American quarterback and a star center fielder for the Colonels’ baseball team.

Kidd’s connection with EKU ran deep, and after serving as an assistant football coach in 1963, he took the reins as the head coach in 1964. What followed was a remarkable coaching career that spanned nearly four decades. Under his guidance, the EKU Colonels achieved unparalleled success, including two NCAA Division I-AA Football Championships in 1979 and 1982, and 16 Ohio Valley Conference titles.

A Legacy of Excellence

Coach Roy Kidd’s achievements extended beyond trophies and championships. He instilled values of hard work, sportsmanship, and dedication in his players, molding them into not just formidable athletes but also outstanding individuals. During his tenure, he tutored 55 All-Americans, with 41 of his players going on to sign NFL contracts.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, Coach Kidd was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003. At the time of his retirement in 2002, he was second in all-time wins among coaches in Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) play.

A Lasting Impact

Roy Kidd’s influence extended well beyond the football field. EKU named its stadium in his honor, and the university erected a statue to commemorate his contributions in 2017. The street in front of the stadium was also renamed Roy and Sue Kidd Way, a testament to his enduring legacy.

In January, Coach Kidd received the prestigious Amos Alonzo Stagg Award from the American Football Coaches Association, recognizing his outstanding service in advancing the best interests of football.

Even after retiring from coaching, Roy Kidd continued to contribute to EKU, working part-time in the university’s development office. His dedication to the institution, its students, and the sport of football was unwavering.

In the words of EKU Athletics Director Matt Roan, “College football is better for having Roy Kidd on the sidelines, EKU is better for having Roy Kidd on its campus, and we are all better for knowing and working with him. Thank you, Coach!”

A memorial service in honor of Coach Roy Kidd is being planned at the EKU Center for the Arts, with details of the service to be announced at a later date. Coach Kidd’s impact on the world of football and on the lives of those he touched will be remembered for generations to come.