Arthur “Art” Boyd Jr. was born in Macon, Georgia, on January 17, 1945, to the late Thelma and Arthur Boyd Sr. As the eldest of three children, he was a devoted brother to Nell Stanley and Earl Boyd.
From a young age, Art had a passion for music and entertaining, while always keeping God first. In 1964, as he began his naval career, he and his beloved wife, Ida Boyd, moved to San Diego, California. There, Art became a faithful member and choir singer at The Southeast Community Church and began building his family, welcoming two sons, Reginald “Reggie” Boyd and Arthur A. “Tony” Boyd.
After 23 years of honorable service in the United States Navy, including service as a Vietnam veteran, Art retired as a Master Chief Petty Officer E-9. His commitment to leadership and education led him to earn four degrees, including a Doctorate in Education from La Salle University, earning him the respected title of “Dr. Boyd.”
In 1979, Dr. Boyd joined the Masonic fraternity and held membership in Sibs of Enoch Lodge No. 17 and Crossroads Lodge No. 696. He later served as Orator for the San Diego Scottish Rite Bodies, dedicating himself to the principles of brotherhood, charity, and truth.
Dr. Boyd continued serving others as a tenured professor and counselor with the San Diego Community College District, working at both San Diego Mesa College and San Diego City College. His passion was guiding students toward success both academically and in life.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Boyd was known for his humor, warmth, and love of music. His talent led to the formation of The Choice Entertainers, an award-winning singing group that performed widely and brought joy to many.
To know Art—Dr. Boyd, Dad, Papa, Uncle Art, or Master Chief—was to love him. His kindness, wisdom, faith, and generosity leave a lasting legacy.
Dr. Boyd passed away on December 19, 2025.
Arthur leaves to cherish his memory his wife Ida Boyd, sons; Reginald “Reggie” Boyd and Arthur “Tony” Boyd, granddaughters; Ania and Pariss Boyd, sister Nell Stanley, brother Earl Boyd, and a host of family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.