Ulas Sipp

Ulas Sipp was born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 4, 1929, the only child of Gladys Sipp and Ulas Streeter, who both died in Ulas’ infancy. He was raised by his maternal grandparents, John and Cora Sipp, as their own child, and has since been known by the nickname “Big Boy.” Ulas attended Betsy Ross Elementary School, and he always pursued knowledge. He was wise, self-taught, and an avid reader—reading daily newspapers from the front page to the back page. He always kept abreast of current and world events. Ulas met his future wife, Ernestine Allen, when he was a patient at Cook County Hospital where she worked. They were married on October 18, 1952. They were devoted to each other and had been married for 52 years at the time of her death. Together they raised three children, Robert Neon Allen (Nora), Gladys Michele Nash, and Ernestine Denise Sipp. Ulas began working as a teenager and was proud that he worked numerous jobs throughout his life. He was especially proud of his job at the Chicago Board of Education, from which he retired in 2001. Ulas was someone that his family and friends could always count on, and he was very generous. He was known for freely giving advice. His strong opinions came from a good heart. Ulas loved watching nature programs and shared that love with others. He loved to play chess and he introduced it to many family members. He especially loved listening to jazz music. His strength was ultimately seen in his valiant fight of increasing health challenges, while still inspiring and encouraging others. His spiritual beliefs were grounded in Islam. Ulas was preceded in death by his sisters, Hallie, Cora, Adele, and Bertha; and brothers, John, Earl, and Gerald. Ulas is survived by his three children; one sister Ersula Watkins; his grandchildren who affectionately called him Faw-Faw, Lois, Delena, Hasaan (Sandy), Walter Omar (Gillian), Johari, Jaleel (Lauren), Taninma (Dietrich), Zakia, Simone, Nailah, and Malcolm; 14 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; close relatives Shirley Snead and Odell Crockett; his most beloved friend since childhood, Elijah Mohammed Jr.; his close friend Shanna Schaefer; and many close family and friends. Ulas Sipp will always be loved and remembered as a blessed man.

Tributes

Ulas Sipp

January 4, 1929 - August 11, 2014