Mr. Ulysses Stokes Jr.

Ulysses Stokes Jr. (better known as “Stokes”) was called to his heavenly home early Tuesday morning, December 3, 2024, in Denver, Colorado. Ulysses was born on October 17, 1948, at Wesley Hospital in Wichita, Kansas, to the late Ulysses Stokes Sr. and Katie Bell Stokes. He was the oldest of eight children born to this union. Stokes had a deep love for basketball, which began during his elementary years, playing on the Salvation Army’s Biddy Basketball teams. Under the guidance of the late Coach Lafayette Norwood, he earned a spot on the All-Star team. During his junior high school years, he played basketball while attending Mathewson Junior High. He later became a member of the “Blue Aces” basketball team at Wichita East High School, where he played the forward position. He graduated in 1966. After high school, Stokes attended Butler County Community College and Friends University, continuing his basketball career. During his senior year at Friends University, he earned numerous accolades, including All-Kansas College Athletic Conference and All-NAIA District 10 honors, which drew interest from the Cincinnati Royals of the National Basketball Association. While pursuing his education, he worked part-time at the Cudahy Packing Company. After completing his studies, Stokes left Wichita and made his new home in Denver, Colorado. He became a loyal and dedicated employee of Ball Corporation, where he worked until his retirement. In addition to his full-time career, Stokes found joy in his part-time job as an usher at the Buell Theatre. He often shared his excitement about live performances with family and friends, even purchasing tickets for them so they could share in the experiences he cherished. Stokes was a hardworking man who always prioritized the well-being of his family and others. Known for his infectious “big smile,” he touched the hearts of everyone he met. He loved watching sports—especially “TNT’s Inside the NBA”—and engaging in discussions about current events with friends and family. Above all, he took immense pride in the successes of others, often celebrating their accomplishments more than his own. Stokes was the kind of person who would gladly give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. Ulysses was preceded in death by his father, Ulysses Stokes Sr.; his mother, Katie Bell Stokes; his aunts, Shirley R. Bailey and Amanda Bowden; and his grandson, Daryl Ryan Clark. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Sonji (Grant) Davis; his sons, Sean (Kennisha) Stokes and Shane Stokes; his grandsons, Quincy (Kelsi) Clark, Justin Clark, Adrian Clark, Raiden Stokes, and Midas Stokes; 18 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. He is also survived by his brothers, Lester Stokes, Carlton (Dot) Stokes, and Steven (Rachel) Stokes; his sisters, Jacque Hollins, Deborah (James) Cotton, Angela Crabtree, and Sherry (Don) Crowley; as well as his uncle Jesse and aunt Willie Bea-Holly. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.

Mr. Ulysses Stokes Jr.

October 17, 1948 - December 3, 2024