Ulysses McKelvin Jr.

Ulysses McKelvin Jr., affectionately known to friends and family as “UDogg,” left this world on May 30, 2025, at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy filled with laughter, love, and just a hint of mischief. Born on May 24, 1954, in Toledo, Ohio, he was a true Toledoan who never met a stranger. He had a remarkable ability to charm everyone around him.

A proud alumnus of Robert S. Rogers High School, where he showcased his athletic prowess in Track & Field and Football, Ulysses not only excelled in sports but also later in life as a dedicated Over The Road Technician at Sterling Pipe & Tube. On and off the job, Ulysses was a jack of all trades; if there was something to fix, he had the tools—and the unconventional technique—to get it done.

Ulysses was fondly remembered for his contagious love of music; including, reggae, jazz, old school tunes, blues, and R&B, he was always ready to jam and dance, though he occasionally turned punctuality on its head by arriving late to every gathering—yet he would still remind his family and friends to "be on time." His passion for outdoor activities, especially fishing, meant that summer weekends found him out on the water with loved ones, sharing stories between casts and occasionally igniting some fireworks to showcase his daredevil spirit.

Beyond his career and hobbies, Ulysses was a loving and devoted family man and brother to his sister Gina McKelvin. He was married for 36 wonderful years to his dear wife, Belinda McKelvin, with whom he shared a beautiful family, including daughters, Traunder (married to Ronald), Monique (married to Darrick), and Melody (with Eric), sons Ulysses III (married to Shalamar) and Cameron, and his godchildren Mya Loveless, Keshawn Loveless, and Carlie Ross. His family thrived under his gentle guidance, wise advice, and his impeccable talent for storytelling that often turned a simple meal into a grand feast of laughter.

Ulysses also embraced the role of doting grandfather to his beloved grandchildren; Ronald Jr., Rhianna, Darius, Emonté, Josiah, Maura, Onyx, and Nevaeh, as well as great-grandchildren Xayne and Farrah Peterkin. He cherished family gatherings where joy overflowed. His special nieces, Stephanie Owens and Sheena Coleman, were also lucky to have him as a mentor and uncle, carrying with them the warmth of his humor and insight.

A Deacon at Jerusalem Baptist Church, he held tight to his faith, advocating for the women in his family and imparting wisdom to anyone willing to listen. Despite the losses—his beloved mother, Beverly June McKelvin, and father, Ulysses McKelvin Sr.—Ulysses chose to fill his life with joy and the LORD.

As we gather at the Jerusalem Baptist Church in Toledo for visitation on June 7, 2025, from 11 AM to 1 PM, followed by the funeral service until 3 PM, we will certainly reminisce about the laughter he brought us, his never-ending advice, and, yes, those memorable fishing trips that will remain eternal in our hearts.

UDogg may have left this world, but his spirit will undoubtedly continue to dance in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him. We’re certain that somewhere, he’s still whistling a tune, casting a line, and laughing with old friends… perhaps even starting a little fireworks show of his own.