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HUBERT O'BANNON Obituary

O'BANNON HUBERT K. O'BANNON Hubert K. O'Bannon was known to everyone as Obie. And it often seemed as if everyone knew Obie. He was that kind of guy. He loved people and they loved him. He never forgot a name or a face. He was almost always the tallest person in the room, so he was hard to miss. And no matter the reason for a particular gathering or event, he made it better. He made people happy. His beloved wife Ellen recently noted that if a person had to go someplace they didn't want to go and do something they didn't want to do, they could have no better companion than Obie. She was, of course, right. Obie was born on July 26, 1951 in Washington, DC and grew up in Arlington, VA. He graduated from Pomona College in Claremont, CA in 1974 and returned to DC where he found employment on Capitol Hill before beginning his railroad career with the Penn Central where he worked on legislative issues surrounding the reorganization of seven bankrupt northeastern railroads into the congressionally-mandated Consolidated Rail Corporation, or Conrail. Obie spent the remainder of his railroad career at the Association of American Railroads, retiring in 2011 as senior vice president of government affairs. Throughout his railroad career, he worked on numerous landmark pieces of legislation, many still positively affecting the industry. Obie loved golf. He was an accomplished player who recorded a lot of rounds at the Chevy Chase Club and at the Ford Plantation in Georgia. In addition to playing a lot of golf, he constantly thought about the game, read about the game and watched a lot of it on television. It was not unusual to find Obie on the couch, intently watching the rerun of a tournament from Malaysia or Spain. And he was funny. He loved to laugh and had the rare ability to guffaw loudly at his own jokes. Obie was not above reciting a joke's punch line an additional time or two for added effect. He was a great friend and a dedicated and proud family man. Obie is survived by Ellen, the light of his life and wife of 40 years; their daughter Blakley Burton of Chicago; their son Philip O'Bannon (Ashley) of New York; two precious grandchildren, Beckett and Tori Burton; and two sisters, Dona O'Bannon of Bethesda, MD and Marsha O'Bannon of San Francisco. Obie died peacefully on Saturday, February 10, 2018 after a heroic battle with gastric cancer. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 16 at Christ Church, Georgetown. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancer at Georgetown Comprehensive Cancer Center.He was a great friend and a dedicated and proud family man. Obie is survived by Ellen, the light of his life and wife of 40 years; their daughter Blakley Burton of Chicago; their son Philip O'Bannon (Ashley) of New York; two precious grandchildren, Beckett and Tori Burton; and two sisters, Dona O'Bannon of Bethesda, MD and Marsha O'Bannon of San Francisco. Obie died peacefully on Saturday, February 10, 2018 after a heroic battle with gastric cancer. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 16 at Christ Church, Georgetown. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancer at Georgetown Comprehensive Cancer Center.

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Published by The Washington Post from Feb. 14 to Feb. 16, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for HUBERT O'BANNON

37 Entries

Fred & Penny Carmichael

February 8, 2024

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Nancy Ward

December 13, 2023

So sorry to hear of your loss. Mr O'Bannon would often walk me back to campus after babysitting for Blakely and Phillip following date nights with Ellen when I was student at Georgetown. He will be greatly missed.

Randolph Titus

February 8, 2022

One week day, Obie and I played as a twosome. When we got the 13th hole (then it was still a par 3) Obie hit his drive to the green - about 15' from the hole. My drive came down and hit Obie's ball squarely on the top of it and knocked it 10' further from the hole while my ball was pin high. I told Obie "Rub of the green". He did not buy it and returned his ball to the original spot. We halved the hole. I will never forget that event as I will never forget what a great person Obie was. I miss him greatly!

Nancy Ward

November 17, 2021

Mr . O'Bannon was always very kind and generous. I had the pleasure of babysitting for Obie and Ellen for four years while attending undergrad at Georgetown. Blakely and Phillip were never eager to go to bed but we managed to get it done before their parents made it back home. They had two lovely cats and the best snacks. I love Ellen's French Country decor. While campus was only a few blocks away, Obie always walked me back to campus to make sure I made it safely back. Thank you Ellen and Obie for being a blessing to me. Rest in heavenly peace.

Temple Grassi

February 8, 2021

In golf, Obie taught me how to get out of a bunker! It doesn’t always work, however♂

Ken Brooks

June 7, 2020

Obie was one of my childhood best friends on 23rd Street. We always had something going on! Swinging from the flag pole behind Stratford Elementary School, spying on the girls' gym class (until the teacher invited us in), playing cowboys and Indians, and generally cutting up. I met him once again when we were adults and it was stellar.

Brian Hilburn

March 7, 2018

My dear friend and basketball teammate at W-L we will all so miss you. Your personality lit up every room and there was never a dull moment when one was with Obie.

Belinda Clegg-Pittard

February 22, 2018

So sorry for your loss. Praying for your family. W-L 1969.

Robyn McCoy

February 20, 2018

What a wonderful man, enjoy your memories. Much love.

Conrad Gaarder

February 20, 2018

We lived two houses down from the O'Bannons in Arington. I first met Obie when he was 11. I remember him being tall, boisterous and funny even then. My memories of him include long ping-pong matches with my brothers, the Wilson boys and Obie in our sunroom, admiring his Honda 50 cc motor scooter (1965?), wrestling with him one night in the snow after we got into an argument, and later hearing his stories of his escapades in California. And how can I forget when he appeared one day with his face all red and covered in welts. He had driven most of the way to Arlington from California in a Volkswagen bus which had lost its windshield, wearing goggles all the way. Yes, he told some awful jokes and enjoyed the punchline more than anyone.
In our old house, where my sister lives, there is still a mark on the frame of the living room door at 6'3", and the letters "OB," and the date September, 1966.
He was a good person and I'm happy to read that he had a happy life.

Joanne Z. Lasko

February 20, 2018

One of my earliest memories is from second grade with Obie. While the teacher was talking, Obie got out of his wooden chair (as were all the chairs in our classroom at the time), tip toed around to the back, and stuck his head through the wooden slats of his chair. Even in second grade, Obie was tall. He was on his knees with his head stuck through the back of his chair. The long and short of it is that, though he could slide in, his ears prevented him from sliding his head back out, and there was nothing left for the teacher to do but call in the school's janitor, who arrived with saw in hand. What a great day in school watching Obie get his head sawed out of the chair. I have so many Obie memories over many years. He was a one-of-a-kind, and I was blessed to grow up with Obie in my life. He was a good friend who gave generously of himself, his humor, and his joy in life. My heart is with his cherished and beautiful wife Ellen and all of his family. Obie will live on in the memories of so many. I know he will always be in mine, and in my heart.

Taci Zunzer

February 20, 2018

Obie was a wonderful man. He was loyal to his friends, and his humor and sense of fun unbeatable. He always lit up a room. I'll remember him with love.

Kathy (McAnear) Smith

February 19, 2018

Obie was that rare person who was friendly to everyone at high school. I remember how impressed (if not surprised) I was at his choosing to go to college clear across the country. I also recall his explanation of how you could save money on getting to college by hitching airplane rides to California. I have no idea if he ever actually did this, but it makes me laugh just thinking about it!
Blessings to all his family from yet another W&L same year grad.

Temple Grassi

February 19, 2018

Such fun we had in Georgetown with our kids growing up together. Volta Park, Halloween, back and forth up and down 34th St. The party' continued at CCC, The Met Club, and Ford. We will miss Obie !

February 17, 2018

Old friend, go with God,and wait in His arms.
It has been my honor to know you.
Warmest,John

Susan Nehmen

February 16, 2018

sending prayers at this time of sadness.
warmly,
susan and joe Nehmen

February 16, 2018

So sad to hear of your loss my deepest heartfelt condolences are with you and your family may the love of God along with family and friends help you through your grief. Ps 116:15

Cindy & Scott Colenda

February 16, 2018

Our Deepest Sympathy to the entire O'Bannon family. May your Memories of Obie's Ready Smile and Friendliness to All Guide You through this difficult time. I have known Obie and Donna since I was a 5 year old mischief maker as well as through much of my adult life. The wonderful O'Bannon family was very much a part of both my adult and childhood years from Tampa/Gulf Shores, Florida to Washington, D.C.

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Deepest Sympathy from,
Cindy & Scott Colenda

Holly Arthur

February 16, 2018

I enjoyed working with Obie at the Association of American Railroads. He was a true railroader, sharp political strategist and true wit. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with his family and friends, who he loved so much.

Dean

February 16, 2018

I would like to express my sympathy to the family for this great loss. May the God who comforts those that mourn sustain you during this difficult time. Isaiah 61:1,2

BMW

February 16, 2018

As much as Obie took sheer joy in singing off-key with Tom Petty, Taj Mahal or Little Feat, he showed an equal disdain for parking meters and paid parking lots. It was always an adventure hanging out with Obie. Whether it be the hallowed ground of Augusta, to the balcony of the 9:30 Club, Obie was always the original. It's gonna be less fun without you, pal. But the memories make it so much better.

Charlie Walker

February 15, 2018

I attended W-L with Obie and had a lot of fun (and mischief) with him in subsequent years. Everything mentioned in his obituary about his personality and sense of humor is true. You could not fail to notice Obie. Although he way taken from this world way too soon, it sounds as if he led the good life. Quality over quantity. May his family find peace with his passing.

Dave Prowitt

February 15, 2018

I knew Obie from when I was a very young man... my Brother and I looked up to him, both literally and as an absolute rock star of a guy. He just had that sparkle, and he could crack me up just by a look , or an arched eyebrow. You always had the sense that Obie liked you and saw the very best in you. I will miss him always, and my deepest sympathies to all the O'Bannon family . The world is a poorer place without Obie O'Bannon.

Ken Crouch

February 15, 2018

A truly wonderful guy to everyone at W-L. I'm glad to have known him a little back then. Best wishes and condolences to all his family and friends.

Russell Smith

February 15, 2018

I worked with Obie at Conrail from 1976-82. It was a small office with some very individual personalities, but Obie was a friend to everyone--patient, upbeat, perceptive, and just an all-around good guy. Who couldn't like him and want to be around him? For me this continued long after we both left Conrail, though I didn't see him nearly often enough. I am saddened that such a positive person died so young and faced such difficulties, and I hope Ellen and his children and grandchildren will be comforted by their memories and those of so many others that benefitted from knowing Obie.

a loved one

Sent Flowers

February 15, 2018

Wonderful man in every way. So sorry to hear of his passing. No question he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Always uplifting to be around his optimistic spirit. My deepest sympathy for Ellen and her wonderful family.

Fred & Penny Carmichael

February 14, 2018

My husband and I attended W-L High School with Obie, and remember him fondly. Obie always had a smile, and a funny story or two. Our prayers are for his family during this sad time.

John Risch

February 14, 2018

Myself and everyone I know on the labor side of the railroad industry really liked Obie. He was honest and a straight shooter. Plus he was fun to be around! I miss him already.

Mark Huey

February 14, 2018

Throughout our Junior and Senior High School years, Obie and I were best of friends. Our relative innocence in the turbulent 1960's, under the watchful and prayerful eyes of our mothers (Kay and Jean), probably kept us out of more trouble than imaginable.

I will always have fond memories of our summers at the O'Bannon's Fairhaven, MD cottage on the Chesapeake Bay where we water skied, crabbed, and enjoyed the occasional company of sisters Donna and Marsha.

I also remember the awesome wedding in St. Louis, when Ellen shared her town with some of Obie's diverse friends. As is usually the case, like me, Obie married "way up" to a wonderful lady, who has lost her faithful partner and comedic companion way too early in his abbreviated life. Our prayers will be with you in this time of loss.

But as life would have it, my visits from Texas to the Washington, D. C. area dwindled into "never" since 1994. Hence our relationship sadly slipped away to a far too infrequent phone call. I do recall meeting Philip while he was at Vanderbilt, when I attended an alumni reunion.

Lamentably, I was unaware of Obie's difficult battle with cancer. I wish I knew so I could have prayed specifically for his healing and comfort.

May he forever rest in peace...

Rob Shultz

February 14, 2018

A great obituary to honor a great guy. So true that he loved people and they loved him. Also spot on that he loved to laugh and had the rare ability to guffaw loudly at his own jokes. Truly endearing qualities. A SUPER human in all regards. Will miss you my friend. W-L '69

Ron Cuffe

February 14, 2018

Obie was a friend from W-L High School. Well known for his easy going ways, his broad smile, good sense of humor, and friendships with everyone -- it is sad to hear of his struggle with and loss to cancer. May all who knew and loved him find peace in the memories they carry.

Craig Rockey

February 14, 2018

Loving father and husband, stand-up guy you could always count on, and a tireless champion of the railroads and their well-being. An astute judge of the options available, Obie was a person whom colleagues looked to and rallied around. And his jokes and stories could enliven the most sedate gatherings. A terrific co-worker and friend. Deepest condolences Ellen.

Mary Coleman

February 14, 2018

I worked with Obie at the AAR for many years. He was a class act and had a great Irish sense of humor. Our company was never the same after Obie retired. Thoughts and prayers for the O'Bannon family.
Mary McShalley Coleman

Randolph Titus

February 14, 2018

Simply, a great guy and a good friend

Alan Walker

February 14, 2018

Obie was a good friend. We graduated from W-L together. He was a great guy and I will miss him. Alan

Tom Ryan

February 14, 2018

Obie simply was one of the nicest guys ever. I first met him in 1977 shortly after taking a job on the Hill and was enriched by his friendship in social and professional settings for more than forty years. He had a great sense of humor and a sharp wit and always lit up a room, and he genuinely was interested in and cared about everyone he met. He was a consummate, highly respected and accomplished professional who took his responsibilities very seriously without taking himself seriously - all qualities that made him a great guy to work with. He was also a great guy to hang out with - whether playing poker, taking in baseball and basketball games, playing hoops, having lunch or dinner or just talking about politics, sports and family and friends. Ellen, you and Obie complemented each other perfectly, and his deep love for you and Blakely and Philip was evident whenever he spoke of you. He was radiant and considered himself one of the luckiest guys on earth. He leaves so many wonderful memories and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. To those who knew him and loved him, there is no doubt he is lighting up heaven now.

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