Major Ulysses Smith
U.S. Army (Retired)
"Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor"
A guiding principle that Major Ulysses Smith exemplified throughout his remarkable life
A Life of Service and Dedication
Major Ulysses Smith, U.S. Army (Retired), a proud veteran and devoted family man, passed away peacefully at his home in Athens, Georgia, on October 16, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on March 15, 1947, in LaGrange, Georgia, to Ulysses Smith and Martha Freeman (Davidson), and was lovingly raised by his mother and stepfather, Bonnell Freeman.
Ulysses spent his formative years in LaGrange and Columbus, Georgia. He graduated with honors from George Washington Carver High School in 1965, where he was a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and the marching band. Following in his mother's footsteps, he attended Tuskegee University, where he majored in Electrical Engineering, marched with the Golden Tigers Band, and served as an Army ROTC cadet.
Kappa Alpha Psi Legacy
Gamma Epsilon Chapter
In 1968, he was initiated into the Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.—an honor he cherished throughout his life. A proud lifetime member, Ulysses exemplified the fraternity's guiding principle of Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor.
Community Leadership
A lifelong member of Kappa Alpha Psi, he remained active in the Germany Alumni Chapter and the Athens Alumni Chapter, where he guided younger brothers and championed community service initiatives.
Distinguished Military Career
After graduating from Tuskegee, he married his high school sweetheart and best friend, Julia Banks. He began his professional career at the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) in New Jersey while also being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserve.
In 1971, Ulysses was called to active duty, beginning a distinguished 20-year military career with Julia by his side. His service included a variety of command and staff positions as an Engineer and Force Development Officer in:
Military Decorations
Major Smith's decorations included multiple Army Commendation Medals, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Army Achievement Medal, among others. His leadership, professionalism, and integrity left a lasting impact on those who served with him.
Continued Public Service
After retiring from the Army in 1991, Ulysses continued his dedication to public service as a Department of Defense Supervisory Information Technology Specialist in Kaiserslautern, Germany. His government career spanned more than four decades, culminating in his final retirement in 2014.
A Devoted Family Man
Outside of his professional life, Ulysses was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, cheering on the Atlanta Braves, Falcons, and Georgia Bulldogs, traveling, and playing video games with his grandchildren.
Known for his generous spirit and willingness to help others, he found joy in mentoring and community involvement. A lifelong member of Kappa Alpha Psi, he remained active in the Germany Alumni Chapter and the Athens Alumni Chapter, where he guided younger brothers and championed community service initiatives.
Family & Legacy
Preceded in Death
• Julia Banks Smith, beloved wife of 54 years
• Martha Freeman (Davidson), mother
• Bonnell Freeman, stepfather
Survived By
Children:
Anissa Mull, Darryl Smith, Syreeta Leaks
Grandchildren:
Mikayla Leaks, Ramiyah Leaks, Lawrence (Artie) Mull IV, Emmanuel (Mannie) Leaks, Eden Leaks, Edvin Leaks, Charles Mull, and Xalev Leaks
Cousin Brenda Freeman, son-in-law Michael L. Leaks, Jr., and many cherished friends and fraternity brothers
In Eternal Brotherhood
Major Ulysses Smith's legacy of service, leadership, and brotherhood will continue to inspire generations of Kappa men. His dedication to family, country, and fraternity exemplified the highest ideals of Kappa Alpha Psi.