Damon Paul O'Banion
née Smith(Aug. 27, 1971 - Mar. 24, 2007)
Born in Houston, a fixture in the Austin music scene after only a few 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, you always wanted to listen.
At 23, he helped transform Thora-Zine, a small, Texas-based music magazine, into a publication with international distribution and high critical regard. He counted his interview with the late James Brown as one of his most memorable achievements at the magazine.
Damon also contributed to other Houston publications such as Public News and the Houston Press. A music lover of all tastes and eras, Damon fronted for notable bands like Blatant Disregard, Dixie Waste, the High Divers, and Drunken Thunder. Chances are that if he didn't sing in your band, he helped promote it so you could gig and he'd enjoy it with you.
Damon began his career at Whole Foods Market as a bagger, then a cashier, then a sign manager, eventually working his way to an executive position on one of the company's Marketing and Private Label Teams for the Southwest Region. He opened new stores in cities across the U.S. to enormous success.
Damon is survived by wife Leslie Stewart O’Banion, mother Mary Hardberger, stepfather Joe Hardberger, father Bob Smith, stepmother Toni Smith, brother Andrew B. Smith, siblings-in-law Missy Stewart-Haynes and Gibson "Gibby" Haynes, parents-in-law Sharron and Vaughan Stewart, godson Thoren Claytor, former ward Raven Rance-Riley, and 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.
View Guestbook at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home
Find Out More
About Damon's Work:
Damon's Personal MySpace Page Drunken Thunder
The High Divers
Dixie Waste
Code Name
SHANGHAI APACHE GOODNIGHT
Favorite foods:
Leslie's creamy zest linguini, green salad, and a nice Chianti.
Paul Bucenec's chicken gumbo a close second.
I'm allergic to
Reality TV, snobs, negativity, cover songs, chocolate, and long lines.
I'm happiest when I'm
Helping others. Outdoors. Writing. Playing music.
Balancing work and personal time. BASKETBALL!!!
Having a good laugh with my friends.
Drunken Thunder - "Bad Attitude" RECORDED LIVE IN SAN ANTONIO
Drunken Thunder - "Goddess of War" RECORDED LIVE IN SAN ANTONIO
Drunken Thunder - "Master Blade" RECORDED LIVE IN SAN ANTONIO
Drunken Thunder - "AA Crash" RECORDED LIVE IN SAN ANTONIO
Damon Paul O'Banion - Slide Show (Part 2)
Damon Paul O'Banion - Slide Show (Part 3)