Donald Milton Kidwell

Donald Milton “Don” Kidwell, 86, a lifelong Midlander, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born and raised in Midland, Texas, and remained deeply rooted in the community throughout his life. He graduated from Midland High School before continuing his education at North Texas University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing. He later earned a second bachelor’s degree in accounting from Texas Tech University.

A proud Red Raider, Don remained a lifelong Texas Tech fan, faithfully attending or watching every Red Raider sporting Event.

On November 27, 1963, Don married the love of his life, Sallie Hammond Kidwell. Together they shared 62 years of unwavering, unconditional love. Their marriage was a true partnership built on faith, devotion, and deep commitment. They were blessed with three amazing children and eight wonderful grandchildren, who were among Don’s greatest joys and proudest accomplishments.

Don began his professional career at Peat Marwick Mitchell in Midland.  After two years, he joined Joseph I. O’Neill, later O’Neill Properties, where he faithfully and happily remained for more than 50 years.  During that time, Don forged a lifelong professional relationship and strong personal friendship with Joe O’Neill and the O’Neill employees.

As a Certified Public Accountant, Don built a distinguished 50-plus year career. He was an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accounts (AICPA) and was highly regarded throughout the Permian Basin. Don generously mentored many up-and-coming professionals, earning a deep respect for both his expertise and his character.

Don’s guiding principles were centered on Christ, and he exhibited a Christ-like spirit and demeanor to all who met him. He was an active member of First Baptist Church Midland for 60 years devoting 25 years to teaching preschool and kindergarten Sunday school. His spiritual leadership made a lasting impact and touched the lives of many generations.

Don’s beaming smile, quick wit, and hilariously dry sense of humor stayed with him to the very end.

Don was an only child preceded in death by his father, Milton Kidwell, and his mother, Gertrude Kidwell. He is survived by his wife, Sallie; his son, Scott Kidwell and wife Lisa of Midland and their children Mackenzie and Macy; daughter Kristen Lawler and husband David Houston and their children Lauren Lidia (husband Chaz), Lindsey Kirkland (husband Coby), and Lexie Lawler; and daughter, Amy Blake and husband Banaise of Midland, and children Sam, Sawyer, and Sterling. He is also lovingly remembered by a multitude of family and friends. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Monday, February 16th, 2026, at First Baptist Church Chapel, located at 2104 W. Louisiana, Midland, TX 79701. Arrangements are being made through Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home located at 3800 N. Big Spring St, Midland, TX 79705.

Honorary pallbearers are Don’s sons in law, grandsons, and lifelong friends Gary Gilliam, Clark Butts, and Joe O’Neill.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts be made in Don’s memory to First Baptist Church Midland or 3:11 Ministries.

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Donald Milton Kidwell, please visit our Tribute Store.