The Honorable Ulysses Whittaker Boykin Remembered as Legal Trailblazer, Devoted Mentor, and Faithful Son of Detroit

May 27, 2025

The Honorable Ulysses Whittaker Boykin, a pioneering African American judge who passed away on May 10, 2025, at age 79, left behind a profound legacy in Michigan's legal community. Born in Detroit in 1945, Judge Boykin's distinguished career included co-founding the Harvard Black Law Students Association, becoming the first African American attorney at Dickinson Wright, serving two decades on the Wayne County Circuit Court after his 1999 appointment, and dedicating himself to mentorship and community service. Throughout his career, he held numerous leadership positions in legal associations while receiving recognition including the 2016 Champion of Justice Award, all while maintaining an unwavering commitment to opening doors for others and strengthening institutions through his involvement with various boards, commissions, and his church community.

Who is affected

The legal community in Michigan and nationwide
Civic leaders who worked with Judge Boykin
Generations of mentees, including attorneys and judges he guided
His family, including wife Pamela Traylor Boykin, son Peter Jeffrey Boykin, sister Taunya Lovell Banks, and extended family
Hampton University and Harvard Law School alumni networks
Members of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Detroit
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity members
Veterans and others who appeared in his courtroom

What action is being taken

The legal and civic communities are mourning Judge Boykin's passing
People are reflecting on and honoring his extensive contributions to the legal profession and mentorship
Judge Boykin's legacy is being recognized for its ongoing impact on policies, people, and Detroit residents
His blueprint for justice, community mentorship, and excellence is being acknowledged as a continuing guide for others

Why it matters

Judge Boykin was a trailblazer as the first African American attorney at Dickinson Wright
He co-founded the Harvard Black Law Students Association, creating crucial support networks for Black law students in historically exclusionary spaces
He served with distinction for two decades on the Wayne County Circuit Court
His mentorship created a new generation of judges, attorneys, and civic leaders
His work exemplified core values of precision, humility, and public duty
He helped shape policies that continue to impact Michigan's legal landscape

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle