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Odell Hobbs Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
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Memories and Condolences
for Odell Hobbs
Sponsored by Friends of Dr. Hobbs.
Carl Lester El
February 27, 2024
I miss Doc very much! He taught me to be fearless and not to be afraid to speak up for yourself. He was the best choir director I have ever witnessed. He had full command of whoever stood in front of him and interpreted the music he conducted as the writer wanted it. I sat next to the famous African American Composer William Dawson once as Doc conducted one of pieces and William Dawson said to me, "He is the only one that does it right! Doc had full mastery of the piano, in spite of having fingers missing on both hands. It would amaze me each time I watched him play. He would play jazz on occasion to show me he was a solo piano player at clubs in his day. He would play the jazz composition masterfully! I truly miss not just a teacher to me, but my friend who encouraged us to play jazz and would take us on choir tours to perform. We had a wonderful time cutting up on the tour bus during choir tours! I will never forget him and truly miss him!
Gloria Cooke
February 2, 2023
Thanks for your inspiration and guidance. I loved singing in the concert choir and ensemble under your direction at Langston University. You were awesome.
Anita Cullum McCants
December 31, 2021
I attended VUU for two years. And at the start of each year Dr. Hobbs helped me overcome homesickness with his cheerful and witty demeanor.
I am thankful for having the opportunity to be a part of his dynamic concert choir that performed in several states.
I am thankful for knowing such an amazing musician, conductor and human being.
Charles Smith
May 5, 2019
One of my favorite memories was when Odell would visit when he was teaching at Howard. My wife Dorothy was an excellent vocalist and they would perform some classical arias together. that was always such a treat.
Charles Smith
Ilandus Swinson
November 14, 2016
I was thinking of you the other day and the influence you had on me as your choir student for a year. You were masterful in your teaching of piano and the negro spiritual. I heard 'I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray' on Birth of a Nation and I was reminded of all of your lectures. I remember that you taught us to sing that song in the Gulla dialect. I cherish the time I was able to learn from you as you were truly a genius with a remarkable passion to teach. I will always remember my days at Florida A&M under your guidance.
PAMALA FIZER
July 31, 2013
DR. HOBBS HAS BEEN A PART OF MY LIFE WHEN I RECEIVED A FULL MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP TO VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY. I REMEMBER SEEING HIM PLAY WITH THOSE GIFTED HANDS. I WAS CONVINCED TO BY-PASS THE SCHOLARSHIP AND ATTEND THE UNIVERSITY OF TN AT MARTIN IN 1973. I MADE IT MY MISSION IN LIFE AS AN ARTIST PIANIST ORGANIST VOCAL COACH TO CARRY MR. HOBBS" STANDARDS IN ALL ASPECTS OF MY MUSIC. I AM NOW 57 YEARS OLD.SOMETIMES IN LIFE WE ARE CALLED TO TURN DOWN THAT WHICH IS MOST IMPORTANT TO US IN ORDER TO APPEASE OTHERS.THANKS MR. HOBBS FOR COMING TO TENNESSEE.
Two of his music students Debbie Sheffield and Debra Henrry
Debbie Sheffield
July 11, 2012
So sorry for your lost...but he was a wonderful conductor of the Virginia Union choir that traveled across various states. I am glad that I had a chance to work with him and the music department.
Ronald Ray
July 11, 2012
My years at Virginia Union University would not have been successful if not for the direction provided by Dr. Hobbs. May he rest in peace.
Charles Smith
March 21, 2011
I ws a classmate and close friend to Odell at Howard, Univ., he continually amazed us with his unusual and masterful approach to the piano. Charles Smith
Joseph Martin Brown
August 16, 2008
Today, with much sadness, I found out about the death of Dr. Hobbs. The words that you all have already expressed are words that are in my heart also. I thank God for the life of Dr. Odell Hobbs because he went beyond the call of duty for me and a lot of his students. I'll never forget his generosity to me and my family while I was a music student at Virginia Union. Words cannot express how grateful I am to have learned what he taught me about being a musician and being a person in general. Thank You heavenly Father for the life of Dr. Odell Hobbs.
Franklin Jones
July 17, 2008
I was shocked and dismayed to accidentally learn of Dr. Hobbs' death while browsing the internet today (July 17, 2008). I met Dr. Hobbs when he was newly-arrived at Virginia Union University where I was a student. He left a marvelous legacy. God Bless his soul.
Bill Madden
June 22, 2008
Goodbye dear friend.
Nathan Cannady
June 3, 2008
I will greatly miss Dr. Hobbs, who always supported the Athletic programs at VUU. He turned me on to my home in Jackson Ward in the 70's, and was a great friend during my times there.
Michael Davis
June 3, 2008
Dr. Odell Hobbs was a fixture on the campus of Va. Union during my four years at Union. He brought us much joy through his music as well as his caring and upbeat personality.Dr. Hobbs was truly a special individual who overcame whatever obstacles he faced in life and triumphed. I remember him attending some of our basketball games with the students and I could feel his spirit in the stands. I wished I could have played basketball as well as he played the piano. He will be truly missed.
Angela Ulasi
May 26, 2008
Dr. Hobbs will be greatly missed! He inspired many to reach for the stars and never give up! He always had a smile on his face and whenever he would enter the classroom, it would be like a burst of sunshine; I will miss you dearly.
James Peery
May 19, 2008
I first met Dr. Hobbs in the 1960s at Langston University in Langston, Oklahoma, where I was a music education major and a student of his. I remember him as an outstanding musician and teacher. I have always tried to take from him much of his finer qualities of musicianship and apply them to my own performing and teaching skills. I shall miss occasionally keeping in touch with Dr. Hobbs. May God give him everlasting peace.
Arinthia Forrest-White
May 16, 2008
Miss You
We will always miss you, but now that your time is done and you have moved on to a better place. A place where there is peace forever and ever. You taught us valuable things and now that you are gone our memories of you are worth more than gold. You were a great person and for that we will always love you. Rest in peace Mr. Odell Hobbs
T. Kareem Powell
May 15, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was a truly unique and spirited individual who had a deep passion for everything, from the roots of Black American music to the well-being of everyone around him. He went out of his way to give everyone what they needed, whether it be words of encouragement or a swift kick to the rear. He challenged everyone to engage their minds and think, even if you disagreed with him.
He was exactly what we needed.
I wish I could say something more meaningful. Having just learned, I am still in shock myself. Dr. Hobbs has made a mark on this world and in our community and I can tell you has been a tremendous influence on me and others who have studied under him. He had a tremendous heart and a strong intuition.
And now he's probably telling the heavenly choir that they need to pucker to create that rich dark tone.
God Bless Dr. Hobbs and every person (on Earth and in Heaven) that he has touched.
Sonia Gordon
May 15, 2008
As a person who grew up with Caribbean influences, Dr. Hobbs taught me about the negro spriitual and transfered his love for them onto me. I will never forget the lessons I learned during his time at FAMU. He will be truly missed. Peace and Blessings to the Hobbs Family.
Juanda Holley
May 15, 2008
I had the great pleasure of working with Dr. Hobbs on several ventures with the Shaw University Choir. He was a gifted man and a true friend. He will be missed most assuredly. May God bless his family in this time of sorrow.
Vickie Parker-Devine
May 15, 2008
To The Odell Hobbs Family:
May the promise in the scriptures be
your hope today, your peace tomorrow, and your comfort always.
Shaw University
Raleigh, NC
Francine Jackson
May 15, 2008
Celebrating a life well lived. We will always cherish the memories. Many of you have made expressions about Dr. Hobbs that are echoed in my heart. I truly thank God for the life and musicianship of Dr. Hobbs. I would not be the person that I am today if he had not taught me how to play the music of life. Thank you for being more than a teacher. You touched all of us and we continue to share what you taught us with the students that come into our lives. Memories of you and your extraordinary gifts will be in our hearts forever!
Tarnisha Keel
May 14, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was a rare jewel of musical talent. He inspired me as one of my best music professors at VCU and associates in the wonderful art form of music. I will forever remember him. May God keep him in perfect peace.
IMANI KEYS
May 14, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was one of the nicest men I have ever met. He not only brought wisdom to you by listening or discussing anything with him, but he was so encouraging and supportive. I was his neighbor for nearly 2 decades and I will always remember the early morning yard sales that he would invite the kids in our neighborhood to help out with!! I remember Dennis always washing that car every Saturday morning!! He was just so caring and I will eternally be thankful for being such a good friend and role model for our community.
Candace Holmes
May 14, 2008
Dr. Hobbs will be missed terribly. He was loved and admired by all and because of Dr. Hobbs diligent and tireless efforts, many who have been touch by him have gone on to pursue careers in drama and music etc. God Bless You, Dr. Hobbs!
Dr. Colita Nichols Fairfax
May 14, 2008
Dr. Odell Hobbs was truly an institution in Richmond, Virginia. As an iconic figure, he was revered and respected. I am so happy to have known him and witnessed his contribution to the humanity of Black culture. He was a good friend of my parents - Dr. & Mrs. Paul Nichols. Take your rest Dr. Hobbs, you definitely deserve it!
Nichole McBeth
May 14, 2008
God knows best and calls each home in his time. My prayers are with you during this time of grief.
Elder Kenyatta Evans
May 14, 2008
This really took my by surprise, as I learned the loss of Dr. Hobbs. Fonds memories evolve from the campus of St. Paul's College in the mid 90's as he led the voices into melodious harmony at the Chapel every Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. Dr. Hobbs I thank you for your encouragement and guidance as I learned to play organ, and because of you I have reached my goal.. Scripture records in Psalm 20:7 While some men trust in chariots and other in horses, we will remember the name of the Lord thy God.... Thank you Dr. Hobbs....... I will miss you... I will miss you
Lorraine Forrest
May 14, 2008
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Lorraine Forrest
May 14, 2008
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Gerald R. Jackson
May 14, 2008
The genious of Dr. Hobbs is insurmountable. I am greatful to have been a recipient of his musical gifts, his light and his energy. Dr. Hobbs, his passion for teaching quality music and his indefatigable efforts to deliver it will be greatly missed!
Stanley & Velda Edwards
May 13, 2008
IN EVERYTHING WE GIVE THANKS…FOR ITS GOD’S WILL
We The Edwards Family join in concert the many voices trumpeting the remembrance a great man, master teacher and musician.
DR. ODELL HOBBS
Music curator, director, thinker & friend
It was almost thirty years ago as freshmen at Virginia Union University that we confronted the genius and generosity of Dr. Hobbs. We can only concur with all that will be written, said and recalled about the musical prowess of our director, teacher and musical mentor.
It will be an artful challenge of all who shared in the lessons from the lips of Doc to pass it on to the current and next generations. He lived and wore his music as a lifestyle. He expected all under his tutelage to be true to the score while yet interpreting it until the audience exploded with applause, praise or tears.
His light, his style and his manner have been forever silenced, but the principles, objectives and message should live forever. Who now will mount the director’s stand with a heart of music excellence and preservation, demanding, getting and giving only the best? One not fearful of bridging the proverbial and problematic gap forged between youthfulness and usefulness. Let’s collectively promise to present the young for they are strong, yet always honoring and listening to the old for they are wise and know the way.
Dr. Hobbs was the epitome of that bridge…a peek to the future and a journey to the past.
Saddened, but acquiescent in heart, we say thanks again for the gift from God, Dr. Odell Hobbs.
Elder Stanley G. Edwards, Sr. Elder Velda (Brown) Edwards and Family
Vivian Hicks-Jones
May 13, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Horacetta Harmon
May 13, 2008
Dr. Hobbs touched the lives of so many students who were fortunate enough be in his presence. He had a gift that could have only come from God. His legacy will live on in the hearts of the many choir members who were given the opportunity to perform and travel with him.
I will turn their mourning into gladness: I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow
Jeremiah 31:33
Dr. David & Mrs. Hazel Forbes
May 13, 2008
And so, we now in the translation of Odell Hobbs discover how he was respected and loved by so many who were respected and loved by him. Dr. Hobbs had the capacity to make everyone feel that they were the only, special one among his acquaintances. What genius, what talent, what courage, what accomplishments. What a man! What a musician! What a career! What a life! Dr. Odell Hobbs will live on in our memories and in our gratitude. Dr. Hobbs closed out well.
Anne Arnason
May 13, 2008
Odell made me laugh! He always had a story to tell. I am a neighbor. Slowly, over the years I realized who he was, how talented and famous,but humble. He was a dear, sweet person and I will miss him emensely. My condolences to his family.
Anne Arnason, Richmond, Va.
Shelby Banks
May 13, 2008
My sincerest condolences to the family. I pray that you will find solace in the wonderful memories that are left behind. Doc, you will surely be missed and I will always remember how you graciously shared your artistry and wisdom with me and so many others.
Debra Gaines
May 13, 2008
To The Hobbs' Family,
May God wrap His loving arms around you during this time of sorrow. Dr. Hobbs was my first music teacher when I was 8 years old, over 31 years ago, and that is when I feel in loved with music. I am glad that the Lord brought Him to us all.
Mary Hayes
May 13, 2008
To The Family Of Dr.Hobbs,
May God be with you in your lost,
It was a pleasure knowing Dr. Hobbs as my neighbor for 23 years, on Clay St. Dr. Hobbs was a very good mentor for my grandsons(Antoine and Tony),it was a pleasure sitting on the porch talking with him he was a man of wisdom , and uniqueness.Dr . Hobbs will truly be missed by us, we love Dr. Hobbs,but God Loves Him Best .
Lance Dickerson
May 13, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was without a doubt an indivdual who gave of himself through encouraging people around him to aspire to their highest potential. He truly knew how to wake up untapped abilities in whomever he came in contact with. I thank Doc. for realizing that same potential in me as he has in many others. He will be truly missed!
Cheli Feggins-Hunter
May 13, 2008
May God give the family peace, in this time of sorrow, in knowing how influential Dr. Hobbs has been to so many. (Colossians 3:15)
Elsie Randolph Hill
May 13, 2008
Dr. Hobbs taught me everything about playing the piano when I attended Virginia Union University. He was such a brilliant musician!. I am going to miss him dearly.
YVONNE CARTER-HEWLETT
May 13, 2008
DR HOBBS TRULY WAS A SPECIAL AND INSPIRATIONAL MAN
I AM TRULY GLAD TO HAVE KNOWN
SUCH A GREAT MAN
HIS SPIRIT LIVES ON IN THE HEARTS OF THOSE HE HAS TOUCHED
Paulette (Turner) Rainey
May 13, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was truly a phenomenal musician and choral director. I was blessed to be a part of the VUU concert choir. I watched him in amazement as he shared his gift, his talent, and himself. He encouraged us to be, and expected us to be the best we could be. He taught us not to accept mediocrity from ourselves.
My sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Dr. Hobbs. It feels like the end of an era, but it is not. Those of us who were touched by his influence will not let it be the end.
Rosalind Donan-Harris
May 13, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was an inspiration to the many students whose lives he touched. I will never forget knowing him during my college years at VUU. He will be missed by many.
Sincerely,
Rosalind and Welford harris
Lutrelle Rainey, Sr
May 13, 2008
I, too, join with tghe countless former students of Dr. Hobbs in affirming his commitment to the music program at Virginia Union and to the expansion of outstanding music in the Black Church. I began singing under Dr. Hobbs' direction in the spring of 1966 and for more than two and one-half years travelled with him throughout the southwest and Northeast/Mid-west parts of the country. I also had the unique opportunity of working with his, as the director of alumni affairs, at the university and became reacquainted with his musical brilliance and love of music.
I know that Yahweh/
God has a special place for him in heaven and he is right now directing the angelic choir's singing of "Lord, let thy servant depart in peace, for my eyes have seen that promised salvation."
Sleep well, because you now rest from your labors and your work was not in vain.
Dr. and Mrs. Lutrelle Rainey, Sr.
Trinity Presbyterian Church
Dayton, Ohio
AUDREY FLEMING-HAWKINS,MBA,CISSP,PMP
May 13, 2008
TO THE FAMILY OF DR. HOBBS,
MAY GOD BE WITH EACH OF YOU. IT WAS A PLEASURE WORKING WITH DR. HOBBS AT VA UNION UNVERSITY. DR. HOBBS HAS MADE HIS TRANSITION FROM EARTH TO GLORY AND WE WILL SEE HIM AGAIN. WE ALL LOVED HIM, BUT GOD LOVED HIM BEST.
Joseph A. Fleming
May 13, 2008
Well I was blessed to know Dr. Hobbs and many persons who were influenced by his passion for choral singing. I have attended St. Augustine's College, My family members attended Langston University Oklahoma, Okl. and I am c/o'94 VUU and 96 STVU. The name and the work of Dr. Hobbs will always be legendery. May he rest in peace. May remembering him bring solace to all who knew him.
Michael Ross
May 13, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was truly a plethora of musical ingenuity, who touched the lives of so many musicians and music lovers over the years. I can not begin to recount what I learned from Dr. Hobbs while playing for The African American Heritage Singers. He will be sorely missed, but his training will continue to persist in so many lives forever.
William Jones
May 13, 2008
To have known Dr. Hobbs is a blessing. We extend deep sympathy to the Hobbs family.
William and Evora Jones
Gerald Irvin
May 13, 2008
Dr. Odell Hobbs was one of those professors that we will all remember as the person who changed our lives forever. We who knew him owe him a great deal of love and respect.
Thank You Odell.
Sir Antuane Ramon Moore
May 13, 2008
Dr. Hobbs, was an exellent musician one of the best! I will never forget him and his musicianship. He is seating at the right hand of my Father and directing the choir. Direct on, direct on!!
Sylvia McKinney
May 13, 2008
To the family of Dr. Hobbs, please know that he has touched so many lives and made many of us grateful to have had him in our lifetime at some point. My time was during one music class that I had to complete in my curriculum and he made sure for the smallest amount of time we had for his class, we would leave with an experience of music and life. He never left you wondering about what point he was making and I thank him for his guidance and his unselfish giving. You are blessed for being family and we were blessed for him treating us as family.
Clarke Bustard
May 13, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was a friend and a valued source of fact and insight on music of African-American tradition. He will be greatly missed by Richmond's musical community.
Robert L. Bohannon, Jr.
May 12, 2008
I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Hobbs about 3 months ago at his home in Richmonds Jackson Ward. It was there 31 years ago that he taught us Conducting during the summer. He had the same excitement and vigor for life that he had all those years ago. I could not see what he saw in me at the time but his positive words about what you could achieve through hard work and discipline has stayed with me. Dr. Hobbs gave so much of himself to music and the people he taught. God sent a blessing to Virginia Union University and I'm so glad that I had the chance to experience that blessing.
Emma Lofton
May 12, 2008
Long after I left VUU, I always considered Dr. Hobbs one of the world's greatest musicians, teachers and mentors. So very kind and encouraging were his words. There will never be another like him.
Camilla Scott Tanner
May 12, 2008
I was one of the first students of Dr. Hobbs at VUU, and I sang in the choir. Even though I have not seen him in years, he was a person who made a great inpression on my life and the lives of other students. He will be missed. May God bring peace to all who will miss him.
From the Staff of Scott's Funeral Home
May 13, 2008
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Evora Jones
May 12, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was a great friend and a special colleague. Through his gift of music, he inspired members of the Richmond community and more.
He will be missed. May he rest in peace.
Scott Phillips
May 12, 2008
As the President of the Virginia Union University National Alumni Association, I’d like to take this opportunity to extend condolences and deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Odell Hobbs. During my years at VUU, I was blessed to sing on the choir under Dr. Hobbs direction. Doc was not just an educator and mentor, he was one of the greatest ambassadors Virginia Union has ever known. As we traveled around the country spreading the good news “Doc” taught us lessons about life. He exposed us to some of the best music ever written and performed in some of the finest music halls. He created a sense of family. While his physical presence will be missed his spirit will live with us forever.
Louvenia Johnson
May 12, 2008
What a joy and a pleasure to have been a friend and a student of Mr. Hobbs. Whenever he was in the Washington area we would talk and laugh about our days at VUU. I always bragged to him about the best choir in the land.(VUU) Our choir was a champion of champions with him as Director.
My sincere blessings are sent in prayer to Mr.Hobbs' family. Surely you will be missed, but we will see you up yonder.
Mary Lee and Murry N. DePillars
May 12, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was one of those rare and specially gifted people that God placed in our lives. His musical prowess was simply the center of a being that radiated positive life lessons, encouragement, love and joy to all those whose lives he touched. We are all indeed richer for having known him. May he rest in peace as he conducts celestial choirs.
James Bryant
May 12, 2008
Dr. Hobbs inspired me to become the musician I am today. I will truly miss his kindness, friendship, and most importantly his great love for the "Negro Spiritual". Doc, you are now in God's heavenly choir. Thanks for being a part of my life all these years and inspiring me to excel both in music and school counseling. You were one of the greatest teachers I have ever had. My family and I will miss you dearly but God knows best. Rest In Peace Doc And May Light Perpetual Shine Upon You.
Gregory McCallum
May 12, 2008
To the Family of Dr. Odell Hobbs: Doc was one of the best musicians I have ever met...but his ability to teach was even better. He touched so many, especially at Virginia Union. Thank you Dr. Hobbs for your love of music, your dedication to your students, and the straight and honest manner in which you ran the Music Dept. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work with you. May God Bless all that knew, loved and respected him. Peace be with you all.
Lisa Gilliam
May 12, 2008
Although Dr. Hobbs left the year before I attended Union, his legacy lived on... Each student that had the opportunity to participate in the choir under his direction spoke with such passion about his musicianship. I know he will be missed, but his legacy does continue to live on in the lives of all he touched (directly and indirectly). May God comfort his family during this time as well as all who had the opportunity to meet and work with him.
Shelley Greene
May 12, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was a monumental figure in music education. It was an honor to have worked with him on MANY occassions-- and it was impossible to leave the same way you came in once you came into contact with Dr. Hobbs. I feel blessed to have been able to have known him.
Carolyn Brown-Lockhart
May 12, 2008
I Thank God for sharing such a musical gift and a wonderful man. Dr. Hobbs was a blessing to us all. He was more than a teacher and musician but a friend and mentor. Dr. Hobbs taught us more than music, he taught us about life. The bible says, "Train a child in the way they should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." Our great teacher is gone but his lesson taught remain.
Rest in Peace Doc.
George & Sylvia Warden
May 12, 2008
We remember the great concerts that Dr Hobbs put on during the 60' & 70's
Dr. Paul Martin
May 12, 2008
God blessed us with Dr. Hobbs and his special musical talent. He will be missed greatly. Love to the family!
Bishop S. Janine Hyman, Th.D.
May 12, 2008
Thank God for Dr. Hobb's musical and intellectual acumen, wisdom, and wonderful wit. For years, one could not hear of VUU and hear of Odell Hobbs. I don't think the music has been the same since... Many were disappointed when he left VUU, and are saddened that he has physically transitioned out of our midst. Nevertheless, we rejoice in his life, giving, and living, and that our paths were blessed to have crossed. Now he has graduated and been elevated to the sacred position of ancestor. What a blessing...it would be JUST like Doc to have this eternal commencement around commencement time.
Brilliant, friendly, gergarious, supportive, witty, animated, passionate, creative, educator, mentor.....these are just a few things that Doc was. He was an advocate for students, excellence, and education. His transition to the spirit realm speaks to the rapidity with which divine change is taking place in the earth. We reluctantly embrace this change, but nonetheless celebrate it.
Those of us gifted in music, education, and creating shall be pleased to carry on such a great legacy. We got dis Doc!
Alfreda Bowers White
May 12, 2008
To the family and friends of Dr. Odell Hobbs...my deepest sympathy for your loss. I was a part of the Concert Choir at Virginia Union under Dr. Hobbs' leadership and he was a master musician, conductor and interpreter of all genres of music. He will be missed.
Anne Lambert Johnson
May 12, 2008
Very saddened to hear of the death of Dr. Hobbs. He was a great musician. I remember from from Howard and Virginia Union. He will
be greatly missed.
Fred BoddieIII
May 12, 2008
I was turly Blessed to have Dr. Hobbs in my life. He was not only my professor but mentor as well. Doc as I always called him stood by me, push me and guided me to become the person I am today. And to settle for nothing less then the best. I will truly miss you.
Fred BoddieIII
Howard Cook
May 12, 2008
It will truly be a treasure missed and a pillar that is unreplaceable. Doc was a precious jewel and a true Unionite. Due to his work and love for the VUU music program, Union is forever in the history books for being nationally known for its contributions to the industry. He was a Doctor, a professor, a father and a mentor. I thank him for his guidance and thank God, for placing a crown upon his head and entrance into the Kingdom.
"WELL DONE THY GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT"!
Alvin Q. Taylor
May 12, 2008
Dr. Odell Hobbs will be missed; though he is forever a part of many students' heart. Professor Hobbs traveled with Virginia Union's Choir to perform in concert venues or small churches highlighting the universal appeal of music. He was a blessing to many of us in our journey of life; may his memory forever brighten any recollection of music, VUU, Richmond and the world.
Cherilynne Hollowell (Bailey)
May 12, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was incomparable as a man and a musician. My sincerest condolences to the family and everyone that will miss his physical presence. I am certain that the LORD told him, "Well done, my good & faithful servant."
Shalimar Hickman
May 12, 2008
Dr. Hobbs touched so many lives in his lifetime. I will never forget the words of encouragement and support that he offered in my personal interaction with him. Truly I thank God for allowing me be touched by Dr. Hobbs.
Kimberly Nichols McKissick
May 12, 2008
What an awesome being Dr. Hobbs was. He lived life well and nothing was an obstacle for him. What a brilliant, passionate musician he was and his legacy will live on in our hearts. Thanks for the wisdom, encouragement and example you gave to the world. You are missed!!!!!!
Weldon Hill
May 12, 2008
I am one among many of those marvelously blessed by the life, work, and caring of Dr. Odell Hobbs; for this I am eternally grateful to the Creator and the Hobbs family for having allowed him to give himself so freely to his students and to music.
Saundra Boatwright
May 12, 2008
To: The family and friends of Dr. Odell Hobbs
It was an honor and a privilege to learn from Dr. Hobbs. The lessons were not just about music but also how to live life. His lifetime achievements spoke volumes about his personal philosophy. Life should be lived with a passion for learning, self-improvement, and selflessness. Dr. Hobbs possessed a passion for life in full measure.
Jeannette Green-Dickerson
May 12, 2008
I will miss Dr Hobbs, so much.
The last time we spoke He wanted bring everyone to gather to sing in his back yard. I will miss Doc(as we all called him), his energy, creativity and his deep love to educate.
Doc, Thank you for being there when I needed you.
Gilbert L. Robinson
May 12, 2008
I would like to thank God Almighty for allowing us all to share in the immaculate wisdom that was of Dr. Odell Hobbs. He was a great mentor, musician, teacher, and friend to many and all of us and I know I am ever so grateful that I had the opportunity to get to know him as one of the most accomplished musicians of this century. He challenged me to be a stronger musician as well as a stronger man in life and those are lessons I will forever be indebted to him. You will be greatly missed, but now you will have the chance to play with all the greats in the "great beyond".
Play on, my friend, PLAY ON!
Desiree Roots Centeio
May 11, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was a mentor, a father figure, Pa Pa to my children and a true friend. His musicality was unsurpassed. He will forever be a true American Treasure. "The song has ended, but the melody lingers on". Rest well my Dear Doc.
Antonio Winslow
May 10, 2008
To the Family
Dr. Hobbs was an inspiration to many, especially in the art of Hymns and Spirituals. He has a left immeasurable memories and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
Kehembe V Eichelberger
May 10, 2008
With this transition, Prof. Odell Hobbs, will dwell with our ancestors and we shall call on him to teach, inspire and uphold the music. May there be peace in the hearts of his family and friends.
Janice braggs
May 9, 2008
Dr. Hobbs was a truly inspiring and awesome man. He taught me so much and helped make me into the woman I am today. I will truly miss his musical talent, inspiring words of wisdom and infectious humor. May he rest in peace.
Larry Bland
May 9, 2008
He was a mentor, supporter, advocate, but most of all . . . a friend. I will truly miss Dr. Hobbs. I met him during my time as a student at Maggie L. Walker High School (1968-1971). He, along with the Late Robert Jones (choral director at MLW during that time), encouraged me to pursue further musical studies at Virginia State College. He said, "It is very important that you legitimize your musical talent." God bless his wisdom.
I will never forget him.
Thank God for Odell.
Larry Bland
Rev. Caudie B. Kelley
May 9, 2008
I will never forget..."If you miss me from round the fire side.....tell 'em I'm gone.." Rest in peace Doc !!
Quentin Hicks
May 9, 2008
This world lost a musician who made an impact to generations. He may be absent in body, but is now present with the Lord.
Steve Hennessee and Bob Wheatley
May 9, 2008
The city and Jackson Ward have lost one of its great treasures. Our loss is heaven's gain. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. Hobbs family and friends.
Christine Gibson
May 9, 2008
Family of Dr. Hobbs
Heaven has a wonderful director for the entire choir. He is the sound of music! God Bless.
Jonathan Mitchum
May 9, 2008
The world has lost one of the greatest musicians and educators that ever lived!!! Words cannot express the impact this man made on my life. He will be truly missed. We loved him, but God loved him best.
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