HOBBS, Dr. Odell, 71, of Richmond, died May 7, 2008. He was a native of Clarkton, N.C. and was the only child of the late Leslie and Molly Hobbs. Dr. Hobbs, from birth, was a unique individual, blessed with unequal abilities. He possessed outstanding capabilities coupled with an intelligence which, at times, astounded his family as well as individuals with whom he had contact. After receiving his Bachelor of Music Degree from Howard University in 1960, he accepted an appointment at Langston University in Oklahoma as choral director and instructor of music. From Langston, Dr. Hobbs accepted an appointment at Virginia Union University where, after his initial year, he founded the Department of Music and was able to establish a major in Music Education. During his tenure of more than 20 years at Virginia Union, Dr. Hobbs and his choral ensemble created several albums which were made available to the public. Dr. Hobbs gave of himself to the growth and development of students and communities wherever he worked. His teaching experiences further include Howard University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Shaw University, St. Paul's College and St. Augustine College. In 1991, Dr. Hobbs accepted the invitation to serve at Florida A&M University, where he remained until his retirement. An accomplished conductor and pianist, composer and educator, Dr. Hobbs' musical talents led him all over the United States and abroad. Some of the most moving times of his life were spent looking for what he called "the lost of strains" of instruments significant to black culture, such as the washboards, foot tubs and saws and the unpolished vocal sounds found in small black churches. The understanding and appreciation of spirituals borne of Dr. Hobbs' experiences was what he passed along to his students. Odell indeed exemplified courage. Blessed to cherish the memory of this unique and God-fearing son of Leslie and Molly Hobbs are his aunt, Lena Faulk of New York, N.Y.; and a multitude of other relatives and friends. His remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd., where the family will receive friends Tuesday, May 13, from 7 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 14, at 12 noon at Allix B. James Chapel, Coburn Hall, Virginia Union University, 1500 Lombardy St. Dr. Angelo Chatman officiating. Interment Clarkton Community Cemetery, Clarkton, N.C. Online guest book at www.scottsfuneralhome.com.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
