Carl Townsend Kidd

Carl Townsend Kidd, beloved brother, uncle, friend, and respected leader in the healthcare and public affairs community, passed away on May 18th, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of service, mentorship, and excellence.

Carl was born on March 18, 1959, to Curtis Kidd Sr., and Pearlie Mae Kidd the fourth of four children. He was preceded in death by his parents and his oldest brother, Jonathan. He grew up with his siblings Curtis Jr. and Wanda, forming strong family bonds that remained central throughout his life.

A proud product of the Detroit Public Schools system, Carl graduated from Samuel C. Mumford High School in 1977. He went on to attend Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 1981.

Carl began his professional career with Southwestern Bell in Oklahoma before developing a deep interest in healthcare. He later relocated to St. Louis, Missouri, where he began advancing in the healthcare field. His career brought him to Houston, Texas, where he worked with Memorial Hermann from 1997 to 2001.

In 2001, Carl joined Evercare/United Health Care, where he rose to the position of Vice President of Governmental Affairs by the time of his departure in 2012. He continued his distinguished career with Molina Health Care from 2012 to 2022, serving as Vice President of Government Contracts. Known as a highly respected advocate, Carl frequently traveled throughout Texas, particularly to Austin and Dallas, where he was recognized as a leading voice and lobbyist in healthcare policy and government affairs.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Carl was deeply committed to uplifting others. He mentored young people, supported community initiatives, and for two decades served on the board of Civic Heart Community Services, a Houston-based outreach organization dedicated to youth development

Carl was known for his vibrant personality and love of life. A proud native of Detroit, he spoke often of his roots and carried his hometown pride wherever he went genuinely believing the phrase “Detroit vs Everybody.”

Carl was also one of the keepers of his family’s history. For years he worked tirelessly gathering pictures, artifacts, records, stories, and collecting valuable information going back more than one hundred years.

He was a gracious host, introducing friends and visitors to Houston’s finest dining and cultural experiences. A true foodie, Carl especially took pride in his gumbo, always ensuring that family and friends left with a “to-go” container to enjoy.

Carl was an avid tennis fan who enjoyed watching matches as well as playing. He received two awards from the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation for his tennis prowess. Carl was proud of his sports memorabilia collection that contains autographed items from prominent sports figures.

He had a passion for reading biographies, a deep appreciation for music, particularly jazz—and a keen interest in politics and public debate. Known for his sharp intellect and engaging conversations, Carl could discuss political matters for hours, thoughtfully weighing perspectives and policies. His political engagement through the years led to his attendance at the Million Man March in 1996. He also received an invitation to Past President Barack Obama’s first inauguration in 2009.

He took immense pride in his nephews and nieces, celebrating their achievements and offering support whenever needed.

Left to cherish his memory are his brother and sister Curtis Kidd Jr. and Wanda Kidd Rogers (Alto); sister-in-law Rosa Blakley; his nephews and niece Curtis Kidd Telemaque III, Jonathan Anthony Blakley and Katherine Joan Blakely; great nieces Alexis Blakley and Imara Webb-Blakley and great nephew Geoffery Elijah Tetteyfio-Kidd Telemaque special cousin Hortense “Renee” Edwards-Frizzle; and a host of extended family and a loving circle of friends.

Carl Townsend Kidd will be remembered for his kind heart, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment to making the world better. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, mentored, and inspired.