Udell Cason Jr., a dedicated educator, esteemed community leader, and beloved father, passed away on January 24, 2026, at the age of 85. He devoted more than thirty years to shaping the future of Des Moines Public Schools, serving his first position as a math teacher at Nash Elementary, then as Principal of Longfellow, Logan, Oak Park, Madison, and Moore Elementary Schools. Even after his retirement, he continued to make a difference in the lives of students and staff alike, stepping in as interim principal on twelve occasions. Born on July 30, 1940, in Glasgow, Missouri, Udell was the eldest of 17 children, the son of Udell Cason Sr. and Margaret K. Cason. A proud graduate of Des Moines East High School, he made history as the school's first Black drum major. His academic journey continued at Drake University, where he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees in education, excelled as a track and field scholar, and became the Missouri Valley Conference hurdle champion. Throughout his remarkable career, Udell served as the heartbeat of Des Moines Public Schools and made history as the district's first African American principal. With a steadfast belief that "education is the key to life," he garnered deep respect from his students, of whom he knew every one of their names, who knew him as a firm yet fair leader, and from his staff, who appreciated his unwavering support during periods of change. As each school year began, he welcomed students with an introduction that included a demonstration of his Taekwondo skills. He believed that every child deserved a champion, and he lived that philosophy every day at the school gates, greeting students with a high-five and encouraging words. Apart from his role in education, Udell was also a pillar of the community. Known affectionately as "Super Nupe," he was a lifelong member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and a founding member of the Gamma Eta Boule Club in Des Moines, Iowa. His commitment to service was evident through his involvement on various community boards, including those of Financial Plus and the YMCA of Greater Des Moines. For years, he taught Taekwondo every Tuesday and Thursday to many eager learners at the YMCA, where he was known as Master Cason. All his years of Taekwondo skills earned him a 7th-degree black belt and the title of Grand Master. He cherished sharing his life-saving, self-defense knowledge and dedicated time to mentoring others. Additionally, he enjoyed bowling in the after-school league and spent his spare time greeting neighbors and working on various projects around his home. Udell found immense joy within his family, imparting the values of kindness, diligence, and storytelling to his children. He is preceded in death by his parents and four siblings. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Emma Cason; their children, Carmen Q. Cason and Udell Q. (Sharlo) Cason; his grandchildren, Cierra Cason, Kennedy Cason, and D'Marquez Glanton; his thirteen siblings, many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. His impact is felt widely, having influenced the lives of thousands of former students whose paths he helped shape through his guidance and dedication.