Ulysses Leroy Howell, son of Cleveland and Nora Sims Howell, was born April 16, 1950, in Brandon, Mississippi. He grew up, went to school and church in the Brandon (Rose Hill MS) area. After high school, Ulysses went on to graduated from Mississippi Valley State University and the University of Mississippi.
Ulysses married the love of his life, Frances Fletcher and they became the parents of two wonderful children. In 1972, the couple moved to Oxford when he was hired as a coach (he became known as Coach Howell) and social studies teacher for Oxford City School. He retired as assistant principal after 37 years of service. He was a member of Second Missionary Baptist Church where he served as a chairman of the deacon board and remained a member there until his untimely demise. He was a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and, served as Ward 4 alderman for the city of Oxford for 26 years, making him the longest serving alderman on the board. He was also mayor pro-tem for the city of Oxford, making him second in command.
Coach loved his wife and children. He spoiled his grandchildren and he loved his vehicles. You could often find him outside beautifying his lawn or just working on something. He enjoyed being busy. But on Saturday evening, May 11, 2019, in Baptist East Hospital, Memphis TN, His Lord said, well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of thy Lord. Matt. 25:21 (Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matt. 11:28) Rest on Coach Howell.
Coach will be forever loved and remember by his wife: Frances Howell; his children: Kesha (Brandon) Atkinson and Tarek Howell; his grandchildren: Ansley, Addison Howell and Kingston
Adkinson; his sisters: Birda Howell and Velma (Frank) Brinkley; brothers: Willie Morris Howell and Cleveland Howell, Jr., and a host of other relatives and friends.
Please keep his family in your prayers