Rollie Richard Baldwin

The Honorable Judge Rollie R. Baldwin, of North Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. His family celebrates his 94 years of life lived to the fullest.

Rollie was born on July 19, 1931, in Lombard, Illinois, and was lovingly raised by his Aunt Mabel. He graduated from Manual High and Vocational School in 1949, where, as a senior, he was elected President of the All-City Student Council, an early reflection of the leadership and civic spirit that would guide his future.

Rollie earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Kansas City, now the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and went on to graduate from its School of Law in 1958. He also served honorably in the United States Army from 1953 to 1965.

In 1966, he was elected Clay County Probate Judge, running on the platform of “honesty, fairness, justice, and progress.” He went on to serve for more than twenty-five years in the Clay County Circuit Court, earning a reputation for steady judgment, fairness, and deep respect for the law. During his tenure, he was instrumental in establishing the nonpartisan court plan in Clay County, helping strengthen judicial independence and public confidence in the courts. He retired from the bench on June 14, 1992.

Rollie served on numerous boards and committees, championing causes and reform that bettered the lives of many, and was a longtime member of the Northland Elks Lodge. He embraced life with energy and adventure, whether skiing in Colorado or Europe, taking a solo motorcycle ride to Alaska, or sailing down the Missouri River. He approached leisure with the same enthusiasm he brought to his work; organizing and enjoying softball leagues, happy hours, backyard games, trips to the lake, and puzzles. Most of all, he deeply loved his family and was happiest when they were all together.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Diana Licata Baldwin and Juanita Baldwin, daughter, Marcia Baldwin Carpenter, and grandson, Benjamin Carpenter.

He is survived by his older sister, Lillie Ann Baldwin Flora; son, Brian Baldwin (Sarah); daughter, Marla Baldwin; Diana Deatherage Baldwin; grandchildren, Ryan (Melanie), Jon (Midori), Kiwi, and Charlotte; and great-grandson, Lennox.

Per his wishes, there will be no services. His family hopes all those who knew him will carry on his values, do good deeds for others, and make the most of life.