William Hobbs Obituary
GREENSBORO — William Ransom Hobbs "Ransom Notes", "Billy Ransom", "Hobo", of Greensboro, died Saturday, September 13, 2008.
A memorial service will be held 3:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, September 20, at "The Elm Street Center" in the Empire Room (2nd floor), 203 S. Elm St. (230-1588) in Greensboro. A free parking deck is available behind the building on Davie Street.
He was an accomplished musician, well-known and well-loved throughout the Southeast, New Orleans, and Toronto.
He is survived by his mother, Elaine Hobbs of Clinton; son, John Nathan R. Hobbs of West Jefferson; stepdaughter, Leslie Pruitt of Traphill; granddaughter, Delilah R. Hobbs of West Jefferson; two brothers, David Watson of Roanoke Rapids and Jeffrey Hobbs of Clinton; three sisters, Linda Kirven of Clinton, Janice Bennett of Raleigh, and Teresa Bland of Wilmington; two brothers- in-law, Ross Kirven of Clinton and George Bland of Wilmington; and several nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent "Ransom's Memorial Fund", c/o 708 South Elam Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27403.
Offer condolences at www. news-record.com/nr/obits/
This obituary was originally published in the News Record.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Connie Weber
September 10, 2021
I still think about you Ransom. Love, Connie
Peg
February 5, 2017
There are no days that go by without thinking of Ransom and his many gifts of friendship that remain with me. He made the word a better place.
February 4, 2017
Billy you are not forgotten live on in the music forever.
Ching
November 19, 2013
Charlayne and I Miss you more and more as time goes forward!
Hoping to see you again SOON!
2RULY :) CHING & Ur Baby G'rl Charlayne
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Sherri
January 24, 2013
You are missed, and you are still loved
Tall Ships from The Sea You Loved
January 23, 2013
The people in Beaufort still love you man, you will never be forgotten.
dougie bryant
January 22, 2013
I love you ransom you have inpired me in ways that amaze the world, its all for you my friend.
Mike Matheson
November 20, 2012
Hello Old Friend! Another Xmas comin and the train rolls on, sure wish you were here, I hope you run into my big brother wherever you are and you guys are sailing like back in the day!
One of the blessed pianos.
Anita
November 19, 2012
August 3, 2012
I have loved ou for so long and miss you so much. I am so gratefull and thank God every day for the love we shared. It's been nearly 4 years now and time has eased the pain somewhat. I'm able to date again and have found someone very special. Thank you so much for all thatyou showed and taught me about life. You'll always b in my heart. I love you Ransom.......
Mary Matheson Steers
March 19, 2012
Mary ...Billy, rest in peace in heaven and see you soon with Mike and all the many, many people that loved you so much.
Mary Matheson Steers
March 19, 2012
Billy,
I am Mike's sister and he has told me so much about you I feel I know you. I think of you a lot and am just sorry I never got to meet you. I will meet you in heaven. Mike talks about you so much and tells me what a great friend and musician you are and how much he enjoyed your friendship and will always remember you. Rest in peace and we will all see each other soon. Mary Matheson Steers
Ransom rocks the docks!
Mike Matheson
March 19, 2012
Billy, I carry you with me everywhere I go. I will never forget all you taught me, every time I play a song, you live on, Peace Bro!
Linda Kirven
March 17, 2012
Oh David, this is so sweet. Ransom would love this so much. I'm sure he is looking down and smiling in appreciation for your kindness.
wanda smith
March 16, 2012
It is Spring and another season with out your loving warm smile
Peg
March 15, 2012
Contributed by David Long of Greensboro, N.C.
Dear Ransom,
Shortly before you embarked on a new journey a few years ago that took you away from us, I purchased a potted maple sapling. Then the event occurred. I set the tree aside and finally got around to planting it in late September 2008, after the intense period surrounding your departure. The tree grew rapidly over the next three years, and when I would pass near it, I would think of you.
But last fall, I realized I had planted the tree too close to the house. I knew I had to relocate it but was hesitant to do so because I feared that I would kill the tree and, in a way that's very hard to explain, I would somehow extinguish a part of your spirit.
Reluctantly, I dug up the tree in early October 2011 and moved it about ten feet. It soon drooped, lost all of its leaves, and looked very sickly...I feared the worst...the tree was a goner. But I would not know for sure until this spring, because after all, trees do lose their leaves in the fall.
Yesterday, I looked out my window on a brilliantly sunny warm March day and saw that new leaves are bursting forth and that the tree is alive and well! I smiled. Thanks for the wink Ransom—you're still very much alive and here with us and I was just reminded of that in the form of a young maple tree!
Your friend,
David
Deborah Moy
January 21, 2012
Truly the most gentle spirit I have known, Ransom sure could make me smile! The world certainly is a bleaker place without my favorite guitarist in it. His music has a warm place in my heart, forever...
Connie Weber
January 21, 2012
We all know that isn't a coincidence when a person receives this many posts in their obiturary guest book. When I would encounter Ransom, he was the type of person who would get outside of himself, for those moments, to see how he could make me more engaged or comfortable. He came alive with his eyes and body language. Miss you.
Sherri
January 20, 2012
Wow. I didn't even know this page existed, I been gone from y'all too long. I love you, Rrrrrransom! there are no words that will do, but music can..
Kathie Gentry
November 25, 2010
At this time to pause and remember what we are thankful for, I treasure my memories of Ransom and all the happiness he brought to so many.
wanda smith
November 24, 2010
You are in my thoughts at this time of giving thanks
Ransom Seaside Serenade
Mike MATHESON
November 24, 2010
Mike Matheson
November 23, 2010
Billy was one of the best of us, those who knew him know there are no words. He sailed to the Caribbean with me then played his way home......would like to here from people
Lisa Collins
July 3, 2010
To the family of Billy Hobbs, I hope that you will find peace thru the memories of such a "Beautiful" soul. I did not know Billy personally, but have mutual friends. This tradegy is so heart wrenching and still gets to me like I am sure so many others. May God continue to watch over all of you as you carry on the name of such a "Legend". Stay Gold - Billy "Ransom Note" Hobbs.
mike woody
June 22, 2010
Billy, my friend growing up in Clinton. We learned to play guitar together. I was over at his house so much we joked I was becoming a member of the family. And I felt like a member of the family. Both his parents, Elaine and Bill, gentle, loving people. And Billy, gentle ... loving. We lost touch in all these years.
I didn't know about this. I should have known.
I should have kept in touch with my friend from so long ago.
Ronda Hobbs
March 20, 2010
I remember most the fun we had on Tate street when I was a teenager. You treated me like one of your friends and not just your neice. I love you Billy....
Cathy Betts Fergus
March 15, 2010
Ransom was a great guy, and a great friend, he was a very good friend to my son Tim who is a local musician. When Ransom would call on the phone to talk to him, Tim was never at home so we just sat on the phone and talked, just about life in general, ups and downs in each other lives, the good things that has happened to us. He was a great friend who I met over the phone and finally met years down the road, he was good to my son and that meant alot to me. I will always miss you Ransom, your thoughtful heart, your kind thoughts. I will never forget the friend I found on the telephone line. Miss you Ransom!!!
Brooke Neal
March 12, 2010
To Peter Claycomb - I wonder if you knew that Billy's (Ransom's) son is named Nate, too. Billy became a grandpa shortly before he left us. If you visit the guest book, best wishes to you
tracie russell
March 12, 2010
ok Ransom...this one from Pete made me cry...and laugh..some where out there, someone may be pick'un on one of your oldies and having a ball !!
Pete Claycomb
March 10, 2010
Peter Claycomb sent this March 7 at 2:19am Hey There, My name is Pete Claycomb. I was a friend of Ransom's a long time ago. Moved to Oregon in 1982 and have lived here since. I've visited GSO a few times over the years, but we didn't keep up- I saw him once 4-5 years ago in CHapel Hill. Anyway, I find myself a year and some later, wishing I'd dropped everything and made it to the memorial service. Hope you don't mind if I share a bit here.
I have lots of great memories of Ransom, what sticks in my mind for some reason is calling people up and playing tunes over the phone. A strange story-I had a guitar I got from Ransom. It was an old beater of a Yamaha that the neck had been broken off and repaired. It moved out here with me and had lots of miles. Great for river trips etc. Anyway, my 22 yo son Nate, who leads the vagabond life, had been bugging me about it for years.
A couple of years ago, I finally gave in-it was, after all a road worthy guitar. So last fall, he called and told me he had lost it, the same week I heard the terrible news about Ransom. I felt devastated- so did Nate- he knew what it meant to me. The odd thing is that it sort of brought us together. Things were not so easy between us in his growing up years, and in some weird way this put a patch on our relationship. A strange gift. I like to think that guitar is still out there somewhere.
Pete Claycomb Corvallis, Oregon
Tracie Russll
October 12, 2009
Peg...I can't find your phone number....but you'll never know how much the cake means to me... please email me or I'll come by and leave my # again....God knows how I've missed Ransom.......
September 16, 2009
I always knew who Ransom was, I 'd seen him playing music on Tate Street back in the "Tate Street Great Street" days but finally got to meet him in 2002 at a Hat party/Memphis the Band party at Wanda smith's house. I have pictures of him playing the drums with other folks at that party... GREAT PHOTOS. Then I had the honor of really getting to him at another gathering at Wanda's house about a year later. Wanda, Ransom and myself meet at Wanda's house to go to a camp out gathering right on the outskirts of Greensboro. The "Frail" camp out. Anyway, I was'nt gonna stay all night but decided too, and Ransom and I parked right next to each other. We talked some throughout the night and had a great gathering with fine folks. I finally decided i wanted to crash in the wee hour of the morning and Ransom went into his van and got me a pillow and a blanket and made sure I was comfortable and safe in my car for the remaining of the night. From then on every time I ran into him at the corner or at a festival or a camp out gathering I was always SOOO delighted to be around this beautiful spirit....RANSOM.... and I never knew his last name all these years, just knew him as RANSOM.... Thanks for being who you are/were. Love and Light, Leslie...... You can hear RANSOM NOTES on WQFS90.9fm, Guilford College Radio, Greensboro,NC. Sundays 6-8pm
Friends of Ransom
September 16, 2009
Just a reminder to Ransom's friends, if you would like to be added to the "Friends of Ransom" email list, please send your email address to [email protected]
The email list is used to notify friends and family of events or information related to Ransom.
Greg Speas
September 14, 2009
I first saw Billy in the mid-'70's or so when I happened to be walking down a dirt road called McGee. He was up on Willie's porch, and since I was totin' my guitar around at the time, they yelled at me to come on up. The music continued until way past dawn, and it hasn't stopped yet. That the kindest of fates has allowed us to be a part of his life, we can only wonder at our good fortune at having been touched by Billy's determined, gentle soul.
Judy Sides
September 13, 2009
Oh Billy Ransom. It's so hard to beleive that a year has passed. How could that be? You are so missed! Tonight my garden will be full of candles and thoughts of you, with extra prayers for Debbie and her family.
Ray Betts
August 22, 2009
I was searching the net for history of Tate St and came across this page. I had not heard of the passing of my cousin Billy until today. Feel so bad for Elaine and all the family. I am just in shock. The last time I saw Billy was at David Sheppard's music store in the early 90s I think. I would go see him play in Greensboro back in the 70s. He was a great musician and a turly nice person. My thought are with all that are missing him.
Brooke Neal
July 27, 2009
Just the idea that I won't run into you on Tate St. or Elam, that I won't see your big lopsided grin again gives my heart a big sad bump. You were truly a Child of the Universe. The world is less light-hearted with you gone. I miss you my friend
buglady r.
July 26, 2009
just thinking of you ,friend..the world just hasn't been the same without you, be the spirits feel more at peace with you to flow with
Tim Bolick
July 25, 2009
I Love and miss you, Ransom Hobbs. I think of you often and do miss all the times you,Sparky and Pete and others jammed over at Peg's and let me be a part of that. Soar On and know you are misses and loved....
Connie Weber
July 21, 2009
In these lazy days of summer, I have thought of Ransom; as when I was with him, it would sometimes involve a raft and water! I remember floating under the sun, at the quarry, holding the edges of Ransom's raft, and feeling at peace.
Ginna Diehl
July 20, 2009
On Sunday the occasion came again to remember the life of another artist friend. George Lynch 1940~2009 so much like our Ransom. The memorial Life celebration featured an exhibit of his wood sculptures and display of his early paintings. I had the opportunity to remember him to all that were gathered, a room filled much like the Ransom celebration.
The frequency of our loved ones "graduating" is naturally speeding up. It is important to remember to tell one another in thoughts words and deeds that we appreciate them while we are here. Remembering them is a great thing. Be blessed in having known them and in a renewed awareness to start right now to remember folks around you who are still on earth. We need each other. Nothing is greater than accepting and loving one another while we have the opportunity.
These brothers had in common that they were just as they were ~ outside of conforming/conventions. I never heard either of them speak ill will of/on anyone. Remember forgiveness. Remember that thoughts carry. Remember to "send flowers" while we are living' and in kindness to strangers ~ especially the ones we don't understand. Everyone on this earth needs love and acceptance. We remember these brothers best in doing kind things for those around us and to always remember it is o.k. to be who you are.
Peaches Wheatley
July 20, 2009
The other day I was reminiscing about the first time I really met and spent any time with Ransom Hobbs was about this time of year at a bithday gathering for Tom Hansbury (another brother passed on now) we camped next to each other and spent a bit of time playing guitars and swapping stories. He was alway curious about the reason I was moved to write the songs that I write. Always willing to share his wisdom and guitar tips in exchange for a big hug and smile and a song. You are missed my friend and I know that your spirit and legacy will always live on in our hearts. Peaches
July 20, 2009
Thanks to Lynn Childers for the marvelous find on the back wall of a laundry mat. I can't imagine how you felt when you first saw it. Like Billy coming back and grinning and saying "hey"
Ransom's Legacy Project
July 19, 2009
On June 13, 2009 the Triad Youth Jazz Society held their annual jazz festival in downtown Greensboro and dedicated it to William Ransom Hobbs, Jr. They chose to honor him because his life exemplified their theme, "keeping the music alive!" A portrait of Ransom, painted by Leo Rucker of Winston Salem, was unveiled at the tribute portion of the festival. Several of Ransom's family members attended the festival. A number of Ransom's friends wrote tributes and performed music and fire dancing at the festival. Many thanks to Stan Montgomery and the Triad Youth Jazz Society for honoring Ransom in this way.
I take this was painted for our Ransom Notes
Lynn Childers
July 18, 2009
I found this painted on the Back wall of a laundry mat up in LaFayette, Georgia.
tomtom
July 14, 2009
My brutha I think of you so often. Jamming with you was always a treat. Camping with you was a lifestyle.
Paula
April 3, 2009
If you only knew how much you are loved and missed.....some days are tough and some days are tougher. The love you shared and the way you touched my life and soul is such a blessing to me. Thank you Ransom. I love and miss you sooo much.
Anna W
April 2, 2009
We Remember, Ransom Hobbs
Kbee
March 9, 2009
Good morning Ransom,
I miss you very much, this weekend you have been on my mind and in my heart. I love you!
Jimmy Shivers
March 8, 2009
I wrote a little music piece in your name since your spirit lives on in me. We miss you and Thanks for just being you.
Ransom's Legacy Project
March 5, 2009
TO ALL FRIENDS AND FAMILY: Thank you for all your beautiful remembrances of Ransom. They are comforting to all of us. We wanted to let you know that WGHP-TV News will air a segment about Billy/Ransom on Saturday, March 14 at 10:00 pm. If you are outside the viewing area, it will probably be available online later. To be added to Ransom's offical email notification list, please send your email address to: [email protected] or click on the link below to send it.
Thank you,
Cu Cu
March 5, 2009
I already cried because he is gone, but I smile because he lived. I already prayed he'd come back, but I open my eyes and see all he left. My heart feels empty because I can't see him, but I am full of love for all he shared. I will always cherish his memory, his smile, his heart felt music, he opened my eyes to love and that love... may it live on forever in others and in my heart. Thank u Ransom
christie noble
March 4, 2009
Ransom Notes had a great name all the same. He had a greater song. A deeper vision. Another great love of ours, Sam, used to say that he never knew that not everyone heard music in their heads ALL the time. Billy had music running through every ounce of his being. We are lucky in that we can still feel that music even if we cannot touch him. His beauty was unimaginably profound, to his detriment on occasion. He will never leave us if he ever touched us. What a privalege to have been able to know and love him. We will all miss you. All the peaches and pickles and olives and vodka and roots of all kinds will forever remind me of you.
Cheryl June Luteman
March 1, 2009
I think about you every day. I miss you every day. I wish I had spent more time with you through the years. It's still incredibly hard to know that I won't see you sing or play or laugh or dance anymore in this world. Talked to one of your dearest old friends yesterday, a G'boro boy who plays sax down in New Orleans now. We're all going to keep your memory alive and safe in our hearts, Billy. I hope you feel us, 'cause we sure feel you. We love you all the way to the moon.
God Bless and keep you, Billy, til we see you again...
Linda Kirven
February 26, 2009
I was in a store the other day and they had put out all the gardening things, like seeds, tools, soil, pots and I thought about your garden that you planted every year. It brought tears to my eyes knowing that you won't be able to have your little garden this year. I didn't grow as many things as you did, but I will think of you with everything I do grow. I miss you terribly. Your sister who misses you so much.
Suzi Carter
February 25, 2009
Oh Ransom,I miss you so much....what else is their to say....their are no words to express how i feel,so I'll say,I love you so much...and miss you even more if possible...
Billy at home off of McGee St ca. 1980
porter
February 24, 2009
**** I was back in GSO last fall and noticed the flyer for the Billy Hobbs tribute at Blind Tiger...I had not heard that name in 28 years. I hung-out some with Billy as a fourteen year-old kid cutting my teeth on the grit of Tate Street. Saw Little Alfred in the Nightshade. Ate Amelia's macrobiotic fare with him at Hong Kong House. And visited him in his place in that alley off of McGee above and behind NYP on Tate. He pointed-out a tree in his front yard that was split at waist height -a leader in tree jargon. But he showed me it also looked like something else entirely...it was somehow anthropomorphically female...I never looked at trees the same. Though I did not ever know him very well, I remember him as always immersed in music of some sort , playing albums for me (or any of the many visitors), working on songs on guitar and jamming on an old upright piano. I unearthed this snapshot i took of him back around 1980.****
Janet McCune Rogers
February 24, 2009
You will always be with me. It's
about that time to put the extra tent up.
KATHIE GENTRY
February 23, 2009
Each time I read a new tribute to Ransom (although he will always be Billy Hobbs to me) I feel his loss as well as the far-reaching influence that he had in the lives of so many others. With love like that, he will never really pass from us...
Lynnee Childers
February 21, 2009
My life was better, When you was in it.
I miss you, Ransom Notes. Its As though a part of me has passed.
Jimmy Shivers
February 5, 2009
As the days linger on and the world continues to change around us, your friends will never forget you for the lasting impression you made.
Bobby Worrell
February 4, 2009
There are friends where you are
Shining a light from some distant star
With open arms they welcome you
I hope to be there when I am through
Friends are few and far between
But one like you I have never seen
Where you are is a palace of grace
We will see you in that place
Light a star for us all; you are dearly loved and we know we are also loved... thanks to you Ransom; You put lots of love and light in our hearts.
Bryan Blake
January 28, 2009
The first time I met Ransom was at Mt Arie fiddlers convention, late 1980s? I turned around and he was just there, talking to me about Louisiana music. We talked as if we had been friends for years.(He never met a stranger.) Later that weekend he returned with a drink to this day we call a Ransom lemon drop. It was a citrus vodka in a shot glass, a lemon slice on top covered with sugar, Goslings dark 151 rum, and a match! Watch out! When the fire went out ,drink the shot and bite the caramelized lemon!! For many years I would be at a music festival and turn around and there would be Ransom. Sometimes several years would pass and then again, Ransom. I always thought ,when I lost touch, that I would see him down the line. His presence is still here. I'm sure, someday, I'll just turn around...
Sandy Miller Sasso
January 25, 2009
I just found out from Lynne of Billy's passing. I knew Billy in 77-78. We were sweethearts. I learned so much from him about music and living life moment to moment. He played my little Gibson guitar in Aliza's. I mourn his absence.
Charlayne Notes
January 6, 2009
Charlayne, Sits staring into the cold .
Into the night. This night, Every night. What is she doing here.
Everyday, We wake up to find.
Your gone.
You are , Who she is, You are .
And there is nowhere else for her to go,
No one else for her to become.
She's lived her life. The life you made her. Because You made her who she is.
With Out you . She is just a shell.
Staring out into the cold. Into the night, This night, Every night........
Tracie Russell
December 25, 2008
Ransom, I guess you hear the bells of Christmas this season like never before.We miss you and love you. And, above us,we know your spirit showers all with Love on the highest level of all.....Peace and love to all.....Bug Lady
ROBERT HYATT
December 23, 2008
TO ALL OF RANSOM'S FRIENDS AND FAMILLY MAY GOD BLESS YOU THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. I DO MISS BILLY MUCHLY THIS THYME O' TH' YEAR AS WE TENDED TO DO MUCH OF OUR PICKIN' TOGETHER SINCE MOST OF THE YEAR WE WERE RAMBLIN' ABOUT. YET EACH HOLIDAY SEASON WOULD BRING US BACK TOGETHER AND WE WOULD "PICK" UP WHERE WE LEFT OFF. THAT IS NOT BAD ADVISE FOR ALL WHO CARE ABOUT ONE ANOTHER, LET BYE-GONES BEE BYGONES, AND PICK UP THE PIECES WHERE YOU LEFT OFF. AS OUR DEAR REPARTED BROTHER HAS SHOWN US YOU R PRON E TO BE TAKEN AT ANY THYME. DON'T LET THE ONE U LOVE MOST LEAVE HERE A' WONDERING WETHER U STILL LOVE 'EM OR NOT. LET EM' KNOW IT SO THEIR JOURNEY TO THE OTHER SIDE WILL BE A PLEASANT ONE INSTEAD OF ONE OF DOUBT. WE R @ A VERY STRANGE PERIOD OF HISTORY. A 'CHANGING OF THE GUARD IS CERTIANLY AT HAND . R WE PRIVEDGLED TO BE HERE @ THIS THYME OR IS IT A VEXATION? THIS EACH INDIVIDUAL MUST WERK OUT BETWEEE THEMSELVES AND THEIR CREATOR. I FEEL VERY BLESSED TO HAVE BEEN HERE IN THIS AGE AND TO HAVE MET THE LOVELY PEOPLE I HAVE BEEN HONORED TO HAVE MET RANSOM BEING AT THE TOP O' TH' LIST. I HAVE BEEN LUCKY ENOUGH TO HAVE BEEN TRULY IN LOVE WITH THE MOST PRECIOUS ANGEL GOD EVER GRACED THIS EARTH WITH. ALTHOUGH WE R NO LONGER TOGETHER MY LOVE FOR HER STILL GROWS DAILY, THIS HAS BEEN MY BLESSING . I HOPE ALL OF U THAT READ THIS CAN HAVE THE SAME EXPERIENCE AS WELL BEFORE DEPARTING THIS WORLD.GOD BLESS ALL AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS DON'T LEAVE OUT YOUR CREATOR AND IF U LOVE SOMEONE TELL EM'SO!!!!!.....ME
Libre
December 17, 2008
I am having a hard time with this today. It is tough each day but for what ever reason I am extra sad. I guess the holidays are approaching and the reality of it sinks in. Thanks to all of you for posting. Your words and stories help more than anything. One Love
The Gypsy-spirited, brown-eyed Troubadour: Mr. Billy "Ransom Note" Hobbs
December 16, 2008
Cheryl June Luteman
December 14, 2008
ODE TO BILLY “RANSOM NOTE” HOBBS
A Gypsy Spirit, Brown-eyed Troubadour,
A friend to all souls & a stranger to none...
Surely, our little corner of the world has lost
Its SHINE and its SHIMMY, now that he’s gone.
“Where Billy be at?” the old bluesman used to ask,
“He should still be here...”
You mighty right about that.
I don’t understand; just can’t fathom why,
How could anyone want to hurt our “Ransom” Billy?
I first met Billy Hobbs in 1978, when I first started hangin' out on Tate St. We became fast friends; we were lovers on a few occasions through the years... I got to sing with him some; we were even in a combo together for a little while. I’ll never forget one hot Friday afternoon on Tate Street; Billy said we should have band practice that night. Being young and really immature, I said, "Gosh Billy, its Friday night; I usually just party on Friday nights, you know, I don’t wanna PRACTICE on a Friday night!" (Yeah, I know... pretty stupid, huh?) Anyway, Billy gets kinda’ mad and says, "Hey man! I don't care what night it is! I'll play music ANY night, MAN!"
That was the only time I EVER remember Billy gettin’ P.Oed. ‘Course, he was right. And I'll always remember that day ‘cause he taught me something. Billy was dedicated... to playin' music, to havin' fun and bringin’ joy, to being a loving human being and simply engaging in the moment. Maybe there’s some folks that might say that Billy could be a little too laid back. But, I think his priorities were intact more than a lot of people could understand. Billy had the courage to live a free life the way he wanted to live it. He never seemed to have any fear or self-doubt about who he was or was 'supposed to be', nor any confusion about what was really important in this life. To me, Billy seemed to care about two main things--- two really big things: MUSIC and PEOPLE. He cared deeply about US... all of us. And that’s why WE love him so much. Remember what the man said... that a heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much YOU are loved by others. That’s Billy all the way--- big-hearted and well-loved.
I guess if there was one thing Billy DIDN’T seem to care much about, it was being ‘main stream’; Billy was never mainstream, BILLY WAS THE STREAM; and the STREAM WAS BILLY!
Billy was so real, so unpretentious, so open and able to give. Honestly, I haven’t met too many people who are as free and comfortable in their own skin as Billy "Ransom Note" Hobbs. And on top of everything, the boy could flat-out SHIMMY!
So even now that he has passed, Billy Hobbs is, once again, teaching me something: “live in the NOW, quit worryin’ so much about the future, try to be humble, but be fearless and dedicated to creating your joy. And make lots of time for friends, family and FUN!” I hear ya’ Billy, I just hope I can put more into practice what you’ve always done so naturally. I'll always love and admire Billy... for his courage, his talent, his humor and his effortless capacity to love.
Unfortunately, I had not seen Billy since I got divorced, moved away from the 'hood and went to school. With my head buried in text books for the past three years, I didn't even hear about Billy's tragic death until over a month after his memorial.
It's almost Christmas time now, and every day, I think of him and I stop whatever I’m doing and my eyes well up with tears; because every day, the reality sinks in a little deeper that I won't see him in this ol' world anymore. My God, how I will always love that Honey-Sweet Soulful Man, Mr. Billy "Ransom Note" Hobbs.
With love and Peace to all in Billy's family and wide circle of friends...
wanda smith
December 8, 2008
At this time, as the most of holy days approaches, I offer a prayer. Let our hearts feel the love you gave so easly, and that the gift of comfort will come to your beloved family and your forever loving friends. As the wonderful night of Christmas approaches, I will look upon the sky and know that I will see another bright star, the one that you have cast to let us know that you are still with us.
Nathan Hobbs
December 7, 2008
this nathan son of ransom, thanks for every writing in i just wanted to say hay also look also am looking for work let m know iff you can help out
wanda smith
November 19, 2008
As Thansgiving approaches, I am reminded of how thankful I am to have spent time with you, and to have shared a meal, music, love and laughter. Happy Thansgiving Brother.
David McCracken
October 8, 2008
Sure do love you my gypsy brother
Peg
October 6, 2008
Peg’s Tribute from Memorial Service 9-13-08
I feel so honored that Ransom chose me as a friend. I hope you heard in his poem, “Wildflowers”, that he chose each of you too. He lived his life choosing each moment what he wanted to do, who he wanted to spend time with, and where he wanted to be. So if you ever spent even a few minutes with Ransom, you were chosen by him. And with that as his roadmap, his life was full and rich. He chose you.
Ransom once told me, “If you let people think you are stupid, then they will have NO expectations of you, and then you will be free to live as we were meant to live – open, free, loving everyone, joyfully with no worries.” After my brain made enough twists and turns to understand what he had said, I realized that he’s the one who got it right. He was not by any means, stupid. Ransom made the highest score in his high school on college boards, but he never told me that. His family did. He was a very humble man. He asked for little from anyone, and gave a great deal to everyone. I think he is probably very surprised at the outpouring of love for him right now by people from all walks of life – from millionaires to paupers and everyone in between.
In the past few week, I have learned of at least 30 people who say Ransom was their best friend. He certainly was my best friend. I suspect there are many more who feel that deep connection with him and who knew they could always count on him when it mattered most. I have never heard of anyone who had so many “best friends”.
A friend, Lauren Smith, who could not be here today for the memorial service wrote this to me yesterday. “To call Ransom a ‘character’ somehow diminishes his humanity, but I do think of him as one of those increasingly rare individuals who, even before death, is not really of this world but a few inches above it. He seemed untethered by the trappings of our modern world, and lived his life with an uncommon graceful lilt.”
Ransom has friends in every state of this nation and in many other countries. He seemed to effortlessly make friends wherever he was. What a testament to his life that people came from all over the country to be here today! He was a sweet, gentle, kind, loving, generous, non-judgmental, peaceful man.
Ransom was really a very private man. As I tried to think of a way to talk about Ransom today, I thought of a massive unending patchwork quilt. Each of us got to know and will hold different pieces of Ransom’s quilt, each beautiful in its own rite, but none of us could see the whole quilt all put together, because it was too vast. Today’s celebration is probably the closest we will ever get to bringing the pieces of that quilt together as a whole. This man was known by more names than anyone could squeeze out of a real name, and if you know his history, you can tell when a friend met him just by what they call him – Bill, Billy, Billy Ransom, Hobo, Billy Hobo, Will, William, Ransom, Ransom Notes, and most importantly to him, Daddy and Grandpa. We will each leave here carrying our pieces of his quilt in our hearts. Let’s put them together as often as possible to honor his memory.
I had the privilege of spending time with Ransom the night before he died, and I want you all to have the comfort of knowing he seemed happier than I had ever seen him before, as if all was right in his world. That’s how he wants us to remember him. Ransom wants us to let go of our sadness, regret, and anger, and quickly find our way to forgiveness. These words seem to describe Ransom’s outlook on life:
This is the beginning of a new day.
God has given me this day to use as I choose.
I get to choose!
I can waste it or use it for something good,
But what I do today is important
Because I am exchanging a day of my life for it.
I’ll leave with you some of Ransom’s words:
“If I dream, I hope it’s of you. If you dream, I hope your dreams come true.” Until we meet again, fly high Sweet Ransom.
George Bland, Brother-in-Law
October 6, 2008
On Saturday morning, September 13, we lost Ransom Hobbs, a great Friend, a wonderful Son, Brother, Father, Uncle and Grandpa. Ransom was an incredibly kindhearted, sweet, gentle person and now family and friends are grieving hard over losing him. His passing was a senseless tragedy and a shock to us all. His family would want for each of us, not to dwell on his passing; but to celebrate his life, how he touched each of us and left us better for it. No family gathering was ever complete until Ransom arrived, sat at the piano or did a little pickin' on his guitar and sang a song or two. Ransom, as most of you know, had a bit of the wanderlust, which often left us befuddled and perplexed, and during his travels he cultivated "best friends" all over the country and in many parts of the world. Where ever he went, his guitar and his music went with him. When he left and when he came home and when he left again, he always left a bit of himself in our hearts and we are better for it. That's Ransom, our friend and our brother.
Ron Royster
October 1, 2008
The following is from Anita Kinney, Superstar!:
"I wrote this poem for my dear friend and brother Ransom after his death a couple of long weeks ago. The transition from loss and pain to gratefulness and peace is a difficult one, one which couldn't have happened for me without the love and care of my family. I love and am thankful for everyone in my life, losing one so close reminds us to be grateful every second for all our blessings. Shine on lovelies, shine on and be thankful we were able to know this shining light, Ransom Hobbs.
Shower This Light
I just want a huge journal that I could splatter myself upon,
yet it wouldn't hold all the tears.
That journal would weep with the strokes of my remorse.
Those pages would not be able to withstand the anger and frustration I carry for your wrongful disappearance.
All the owls at night who bear my resemblance shriek out your name.
All the moths will fling themselves into the flames with tremendous wonder and float right on up into the smoke of my compassion.
The rain falls and sheds the tears of our ancestors,
the tears of joy that you have rejoined them.
The droplets that once were streams and rivers and oceans,
the clouds who arose from the roots of trees from the deep caves within,
those ancestors who reside in our very core.
Those ones who've gone before,
please take all your care and love Him with all your might and strength.
Hold him with all your arms,
shed all your joy and wisdom and wrap him with your eyes.
Stand up and encircle him with millions of layers of understanding and tell him everything is going to be alright.
Tell him our tears and tell him we celebrate.
Rush all our love into his angel pores, into his angel heart
And please, those who have gone before
please don't give him a limit,
you know he'll be late.
Give him his space and allow him eternity of comfort and beauty,
of appreciation and gorgeous, humming music.
Give him our memories and ask him to hold them close.
Ransom,
Take our sorrows and know we rejoice in the memory of you.
Know our love is greater than we are.
Please float as free as the breeze, just as you walked this life's trail.
Each footprint you walk we are with you, and each step we take follows behind you.
Play your beautiful songs and we shall dance.
We shall dance in the light and the shadows,
in the rain and in the shine,
in the clearness and in the shower,
we shall dance."
Craig Pannell
October 1, 2008
I remember the first time I met Ransom. It was at a Peidmont Blues Contest at the Somewhere Else Tavern. We were both in the contest. I was playing with a band....And Ransom was doing a One Man Show. He had a small wooden crate turned on it's side beating it with a kick drum pedal, a high hat with a tamborine on it, a harmonica hung around his neck, he was singing and playing a resonator guitar with a slide. I walked up to him after he was done and said "Man you should win this thing hand down." Blue Note Special won.....What a rip off. Ransom and I were good friends from then on and I will miss him so. What the Party Needs Indeed........Craig Cracker
October 1, 2008
FYI
Memorial donations in honor of Ransom may be made to:
Ransom's Memorial Fund
708 South Elam Ave.
Greensboro, N.C. 27403
Anita Kinney
October 1, 2008
This is the poem for Ransom, from my heart.
Shower This Light
I just want a huge journal that I could splatter myself upon,
yet it wouldn’t hold all the tears.
That journal would weep with the strokes of my remorse.
Those pages would not be able to withstand the anger and frustration I carry for your wrongful disappearance.
All the owls at night who bear my resemblance shriek out your name.
All the moths will fling themselves into the flames with tremendous wonder and float right on up into the smoke of my compassion.
The rain falls and sheds the tears of our ancestors,
the tears of joy that you have rejoined them.
The droplets that once were streams and rivers and oceans,
the clouds who arose from the roots of trees from the deep caves within,
those ancestors who reside in our very core.
Those ones who’ve gone before,
please take all your care and love Him with all your might and strength.
Hold him with all your arms,
shed all your joy and wisdom and wrap him with your eyes.
Stand up and encircle him with millions of layers of understanding and tell him everything is going to be alright.
Tell him our tears and tell him we celebrate.
Rush all our love into his angel pores, into his angel heart
And please, those who have gone before
please don’t give him a limit,
you know he’ll be late.
Give him his space and allow him eternity of comfort and beauty,
of appreciation and gorgeous, humming music.
Give him our memories and ask him to hold them close.
Ransom,
Take our sorrows and know we rejoice in the memory of you.
Know our love is greater than we are.
Please float as free as the breeze, just as you walked this life’s trail.
Each footprint you walk we are with you, and each step we take follows behind you.
Play your beautiful songs and we shall dance.
We shall dance in the light and the shadows,
in the rain and in the shine,
in the clearness and in the shower,
we shall dance.
wanda smith
October 1, 2008
This is my second entry. This one is a fantastic memory. I remember staying up all night one time with Ransom in a home studio while he banged away on the piano. I danced until my feet throbbed, and laughed til my sides hurt. When the sun came up, he made me a cup of jasmine tea. I still can remember the aroma, and feel the joy.
Louise Brown
September 30, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about Bill's tragic end. He was such a sweet person. I had not seen him in a long, long time but wish to offer my condolences to his family and friends.
Keith Buckner
September 30, 2008
When in '74 I first arrived at UNCG as a junior in art school there was a welcoming event in the quad. I was drawn to a lone musician playing guitar and singing. It was great music to my ears and made me feel like I'd come to the right place. Of all the thousand shows I've seen and played since I've never forgotten that soulful performance. Go with God Billy. -keith buckner
Lightnin' Wells
September 30, 2008
I'm going to miss you Hobo. We met at about age 16 at Boy Scout camp (can you believe that!) and were both young guitar players who hit it off instantly. Somehow over the years our lives intersected at certain important times; the early 1970s in Chapel Hill, the late 1970s in Beaufort where you turned me on to an old blues singer that you discovered named Big Boy Henry, jamming the blues at Ailiza's on Tate St. in the early 1980s. You were one of my oldest and dearest musician friends and your spirit will continue to live on with your kind and gentle ways.
Lightnin' Wells
Peg
September 28, 2008
September 27, 2008
Dear All Who Love Ransom,
I consulted a Buddhist friend, who has studied diligently for years with Master Lamas, to learn what else we may all do for Ransom now. Ransom considered himself a Buddhist. Below are his suggestions.
With Great Love For All, Peg
From Henry:
I forwarded your email to my teachers and asked them to say some prayers and mantra and dedicate them for Ransom. I believe they are leading a retreat somewhere so they will ask all on retreat to pray together for him. This will benefit him a lot.
Here is what I can best tell you from a Buddhist point of view. I will try to be brief and to the point because the Buddhist views of dying are VERY detailed. First Buddhists don't believe in a soul per se, we would say a person's mind. Since every one is already a Buddha and their mind enlightened, we let delusion obscure our minds from seeing this perfect nature of mind. So, when a person dies they go into what are called Bardos, or stages of death (birth and life are also bardos). On average a person's mind will travel through these different stages or bardos for 49 days, a person's karma effects where they get stuck in the bardo, which usually leads to rebirth as a human due to clinging and attachment to this life. One of the bardos is seeing the nature of mind, or enlightenment, but most are so overwhelmed by it and so attached to living that they don't realize it and are reborn back here. If you want to read a good book that was written for westerners about this read "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying" By Sogyal Rinpoche.
While Ransom travels through the Bardo there are many things you can do for him. Sit and relax your mind, think of him sitting in front of you and see a white light very bright over his head, think of it as the Buddha Chenrezig the Buddha of love and compassion in the form of light. Say his mantra over and over, Om Mani Padme Hum, (to hear pronunciation, go to
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCjjQqQDjwE) Repeat this over and over and as you say that mantra let the light pour down like a water fall all over ransom, filling every pour of his body and mind, cleaning him of all negative effects, let it fill him completely. Keep a large view about this and once Ransom is full of the light, let it shoot out to everyone else in the world, all the beings in the world who are suffering, let all sounds you hear become the mantra, all sights and thoughts are Chenrezig and his light. The point of this is to see that his mind and your mind and all being's minds are this pure light. This will really bring benefit to Ransom while in the Bardo and the next life. Have no doubt that where you put your mind will help him, dedicate all the positive things you can do for his benefit. Another thing you can do is take animals that are to be slaughtered, buy them and free them, feeder goldfish, birds, any kind will do, then dedicate that merit to him.
Don't worry about his body or remains at this point; let them be a comfort for the living if need be. Right now is the time for working with your minds to benefit him.
Again, these 49 days of the bardo are very important, and his sudden death will bring him much more clinging and attachment to those he left behind, it is very important for him that those who are living do all you can to let go of that clinging and free his mind and direct his mind to a better birth or freedom. Really, doing the practice I told you above will really help him, do it as much as you can, if you can keep your minds in an open space full of love and compassion his mind will rest there too. Helping him purify his past life will help him a lot. Remember ultimately there is no difference between his mind, your mind and everyone's mind. What we all perceive as individuals is just a relative aspect of mind. So, really, working on clearing your mind, heart and intentions will help Ransom see the nature of his mind. Do positive things, even simple things like feeding birds, donating things to homeless people, anything positive and say a little prayer dedicating all these actions for Ransom.
The mantra I told you above you can say all the time through the day, while driving, watching tv, cooking, saying it as much as you can and dedicate this mantra to Ransom. Really, this will help a lot.
Peace and Love
Henry
Peg
September 25, 2008
Yesterday was Ransom's birthday. We remembered him in Greensboro with an outdoor concert in Centre City Park by Bruce Piephoff, his long-time hobo and music side-kick. Bruce performed several songs he has written over the years that mention Ransom. Then Ransom's Greensboro band gathered & played their songs, trying to cover his parts too. We raised a glass a few times to our beloved friend. Memorial celebrations are continuing everywhere. A radio show was dedicated to him & played Ransom's songs and the music he loved. Blues World Order dedicated their show Tuesday night to Ransom and celebrated his life. I understand that Shakori Hills Grass Roots Festival October 9-12 will be dedicated to him. On Monday one of Ransom's friends here started substance abuse classes and weekly urine tests, "so that he will get to see Ransom again some day". In his honor a teenager and her mother have made a commitment to perform 3 good deeds each for people with whom they wouldn't normally interact, like homeless people. Ransom has inspired so many acts of love. Let's keep reporting them here to comfort his family and each of us.
Teresa Bland
September 23, 2008
You took me to my first Eagles Concert because Mom wouldn't let me go alone. We canoed the New River together and you kept calling me "Queen of the Nile" because I wasn't very much help. Our family holidays will never be the same without you. I will miss you my friend, my brother. your "sweet tea"
Olivia Toler
September 23, 2008
Uncle Ransom,
It's me. Olivia. I love you and miss you. I enjoyed playing the piano with you. You will always be in my heart. I will miss you for the rest of my life. You're still in my soul no matter where you are. I read about heaven and I think it's nice. I hope you like it. I love you Ransom. Be safe up there. Love, Olivia
Linda Kirven
September 23, 2008
My dear sweet brother, Bill "Ransom". We are still in a state of shock and can't believe you have been taken from us. We are all so sad knowing we'll never see you again or hear your beautiful music. We are all so happy that you and Peggy were able to come for Mother's 85th birthday celebration. It was so much fun and everyone enjoyed your entertainment. Her birthday was so special to her because all of her children were there and because you played your guitar and sang for her. Olivia will miss playing the piano with you at David's. You always made her feel so special. She loved you so. I will always remember our special memories together like times at Mama Linda and Daddy John's, playing in the barn and riding the ponies and eating watermelon every afternoon when Daddy John got up from his nap. I love you Ransom and I will never forget you. Every day I will say OM MANI PEME HUNG over and over and pray that it benefits you in some way. I will close for now because my tears are blinding me. I love you. Big Sis
Stephen T Wishnevsky
September 23, 2008
This is such a shame and a pity. I knew Ransom for twenty years and more. He was one of the most inventive and humorous musicians i have ever played music with.
A large soul who will be missed
Lynn Childers
September 23, 2008
My life will forever be voided of the place that Ransom Notes stood in my Heart.
He was the sweetest man on my earth.
I am Blessed to have experienced such a special family love together with him.
I am your wife Ransom Notes.
You "play" said it so much, That it has become kinda real to me. Funny, I know that it kinda did to you too. How did you do that Ransom Notes. I love you. And of course I'll never be the same with out you here. I thank God for the last time I saw you . For the little simple prayer that we prayed to Jesus. For the sense of peace that little prayer left in my heart after I heard that I lost you. Funny at the time it was just passing and simple. But then when you passed It all stopped and its standing. Standing still. I'm Greatfull in knowing that our paths will cross again. I thank God for giving me that assurance.
I am going to miss you so much, Until then.
David Moore
September 22, 2008
Oh Ransom as I read these entries I feel the tug of a tear - but I know you have been called home - So I look forward to seeing you again - Let me live as beautifully as you did...You will be missed by all- Peace be with you
dropzone Dave
nathan hobbs
September 22, 2008
I am ransom's only son, Nathan. If any one whould like to contact me you can at [email protected] or on myspace.com/nathanhobbs
Ginna Diehl
September 21, 2008
The party called for a celebration. I wore a blouse that I am sure Ransom might have wanted to wear. (I WOULD have given him the shirt off of my back) The incredible circle of friends and family embraced the presence of one of our Eagle Scouts William "Billy" Ransom Hobbs. I will always know he is with us when we gather. The dancing, the laughter, the smiles, remembering, and merry music making simply warmed me. This morning I awoke with the Tom Hansberry named "Egg-beater Hair-do" that Ransom especially loved. It was special to be with Ransom's Mom. It was special to be with all of you.
Deb Shoemaker
September 21, 2008
Ransom is one of the very few people I know who had reached self-actualization, Ransom loved life, all of us, mere pocessions material things, did not matter, Ransom had the most faith in human kind, that we would do the right thing by him and each other, well, because that was his m.o. Ransom was the "one man band" and "sweaty guy that danced with the bride" at my wedding, I feel blessed to have those memories and even photos, Last year I ran into Ransom, I told him I was working w/ kids who have Autism, next thing I know there's a CD he made w/ a friend, of therapeutic childrens' music, I have 2 clients that go for that CD every session, the last time I heard from Ransom was his very proud announcment, that he was a grandpa:)
Ransom loved and was very loved!
with gratitude,
Deb
SUSAN SINGLETON
September 21, 2008
ALWAYS VERY NICE TO ME ALWAYS A HUG I WILL MISS HIM
Doug Wynne
September 20, 2008
The last time I spent some sincere time with Ransom was in May and I was'nt feeling well so I parked myself at his living room outside his van across from the porta johns. I could always count on him to make me feel at home no matter where we are or what the circumstances. His soul is so comforting. A true friend, unconditionally.
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