Damon Paul O'Banion

Damon Paul O'Banion was born August 27, 1971. He left us on March 23, 2007. Damon was born in Houston, Texas and lived in Austin for the past several years. Damon had a deep understanding of the power of words. Whether he was talking, singing, or writing, he conveyed his powerful message to all. He had so much to say-- whether it was political, social, creative, or just funny, and you always wanted to listen. At 23, he helped transform the small, Texas-based music magazine, Thora-Zine, into an internationally-distributed publication that was highly regarded among members of the music industry. One of his more notable accomplishments was his interview with the legendary James Brown. Damon went on to contribute to other Houston publications such as Public News and the Houston Press. Damon also loved music and was the most amazing front man. He sang for several bands including Blatant Disregard, Dixie Waste, Drunken Thunder, and the High Divers among many others. Damon's career at Whole Foods Market began in Houston in 1995 eventually leading him to Austin. He worked for the Southwest Region's Marketing and Private Label Teams where he contributed significantly to the growth and success of the company by doing what he did in all aspects of his life, going far beyond the job description. Damon is survived by his wife Leslie Stewart O’Banion, his mother Mary Hardberger, his stepfather Joe Hardberger, his father Bob Smith, his stepmother Toni Smith, his brother Andy Smith, his siblings-in-law Missy Stewart-Haynes and Gibby Haynes, his parents-in-law Sharron and Vaughan Stewart, his godson Thoren Claytor, and his dogs Chico and Tamika. Damon was an incredible source of happiness and joy to everyone who knew him. He was truly one of the most selfless and caring persons, always taking care of others first, especially his wife and mother, whom he loved dearly. Damon lived his life the way most of us only wish we did. A world without Damon O’Banion is a hard thing to comprehend, but he made it a much happier place by being here for the precious time he was. His smile will forever bless those who were lucky enough to have known him. A celebration of Damon’s life will take place Wednesday March 28, 2007 at 1:00 P.M at the Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home located at 3125 N. Lamar, Austin, Texas 78705. In lieu of flowers, a college fund has been set up at Wells Fargo Bank in the name of Raven Rance-Riley. Obituary and guestbook online at wcfish.com