Northern soul

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR COMMENTS. THIS BOARD IS NOW CLOSED.

Jason Cartwright Stafford
Hi Mary i would like to pay my respects to a great northern soulie the soul fans soul fan John O Brien AKA O.B. my heart goes out to all is family and friends at this very sad time please except my sincere condolences god bless O.B. rest in peace soul brother

Dick Dale
Very sad news.When John needed money for drugs we put on a Northern night at Tommy Cheadles, Port Vale. Although John was a Stoke fan we felt we had to do something to help. In all we raised over £700. When I went to his place to give him the money he was over the moon and wanted to give me some of his records, some of which were from The Torch. Of course I refused. Then he wanted me to have a framed picture of The Torch, of course I couldn't take it.We kept in touch and I threatened to take him to the Vale one day, but....RIP mate.

Goldie & Shell
What a special day yesterday was ..Frank & Peter spoke for de whole gang of people who knew John..humbled by the occassion Bless his family thru this time God Grant Us The serenity to accept the things we cannot Change!!!! Give us the courage to Change the things we can!!!!!! amenxx

Sue from stafford
im sorry to say i never met OB but followed his story through the mary fox show what a wonderfull man with a wonderfull outlook on life it is obvious by all the very special tributes on this page what a true gent he was and will be greatly missed. my thoughts go to johns family at this sad time.

Pete Dyson (The 'Wheel')Manchester.
"Peace To Your SOUL!",OB!.

julie,mandy &phil morgans mum
what very sad news to hear that this lovely guy has passed away we only met him once at my brothers funeral and he made such a big impact on us with his lovely stories,he will be sadly missed by many and our sincere condolences go out to his family r.i.p OB you were a true gent xxxjulie x mandy x and dorothy (morgan)

Ant Rob & Jan
God bless you John. Stoke on Trent has lost one of its finest and Stoke City one of it's most passionate supporters. We've also lost a wonderful cousin who will be greatly missed. It's been a privilege mate. Rest in peace XXX

Chris, Brooklyn NY
I never met OB. only heard of him through Mary's show, but I can tell by all of the wonderful tributes that he was a great guy, and will be remembered for a very long time.

Charlie Waring
It,s been my pleasure to know OB for about three years and he was one of the bravest guys I knew, to call him a friend was a priviledge. R.I.P. John..God Bless You...charlie...My sincere condolences to your wonderful family xx.

Abigail and Roxanne Barker
OB will be greatly missed by our family. He was a genuine, lovely, down to earth man, who was generous and a true friend. He always had a smile and a story regardless of how down or ill he was feeling, and was more of a support to our dad, Frank, during his recent illness then I think he ever knew. Our thoughts are with his family.

Rob(Cadiz)
Never met the man but felt like i knew him through his contributions to the MSGB and the continuing story of his courage and humor and the many folk who held him in such high esteem. I hope he's at peace and listening to his favorite tracks in a better place. RIP O.B

Linda
Met John through his cousin Jill but from the first meeting felt like I always knew him. His warmth and determination were amazing. This was in the Foxley Milton and he impressed me with his strength and fighting spirit. We met again at Port Vale and I was privileged to be at the Foxley again on Johns birthday which he celebrated on a barge. A true fighter..may he be an inspiration to us all. Not met all the family but thoughts are with them. Honoured to have met John RIP x

TONY & DO,DAVE &SAL,JOHN & LINDA &FRANKY B
Our thoughts to Ellen & Dan and all the family.O.B one of the crowd will be missed immensely by us all great times and memories,my partner @ the match and everyones nice guy,goodbye mate xxxxxxxx

Ann & Andrew (SC)
John O'B I know you will read this somewhere. It is rumoured to be a translation of an american red indian's chant but I reckon it was written for a proud "Stokie" Respect Always. Do not stand at my grave and weep;I am not there. I do not sleep.I am a thousand winds that blow.I am the diamond glints on snow.I am the sunlight on ripened grain.I am the gentle autumn's rain.When you awaken in the morning's hush,I am the swift uplifting rushof quiet birds in circled flight.I am the soft stars that shine at night.Do not stand at my grave and cry;I am not there, I did not die.

Dan Woodward
I am Johns son and would just like to thank everyone for these great comments and for the support we received these last 3 years. My dad was so lucky to have friends like you and he knew it. He was an awesome Dad who taught me more about life than anyone and we always had a laugh. When I was upset he could always cheer me up. I have a lot more to say and people to thank. I'll soon be uploading the Question Time video to youtube. I will miss him loads.

Phil Lesley Bennett
John and myself met when we were 9 years old we shared an intrest in train spotting, Then throughout our teens we both went to the Golden Tourch in Tunstall where we both enjoyed the soul scene, also we both joined the TA. In later years we would meet up from time to time in our local pub for a night out together with other friends. However we did loose contact with each other in the late seventies early 80s when John went to America, until last year when we met again only to find John had his illness in recent months i have been able to meet a great friend whom will be sadly missed by all who new him. I have many great memories of John. Deepest sympathy to his family God Bless Phil & Lesley

Andrea and Mick Mcgurrin
We have known John for a long long time , from the days when workingmens clubs were still around, he was always the same never any different, when john was diagnosed he always said this wont beat me and on he battled,he never gave up no matter what was thrown at him. My last memories of john were earlier this year at the wheel we had a fantastic day and i took some nice photos ,he was so brave ,we feel honoured to have known such a great man, you will be sorely missed OB R.I.P. my friend and KTF in heaven. Andrea & Mick xxxx

Twiggy
OB,YOU WERE One In A (Trillion)Million.RIP

John Mcglade
I did not no OB but i listen to the show as often as i can,and used to listen with interest to his progress.I used to go to the Torch as well and im really sad that OB has passed away,god bless him.

kelvin waltho
i didnt realise john had died till monday night i heard it on mary foxs show passion thats what he had well miss our soul brother rip i hope theres a torch in heaven hell love it miss you keep the faith

Anne
Some people just can't help making a difference in our lives by simply being who they are. They make the world a little brighter, a little warmer and a little gentler. When they are gone we realise how lucky we are to have known them. That was John "OB". His infectious smile and giggle would light up a room. Never once did I hear him moan. I was privileged and honoured to call him my friend. The world has lost a giant of a man. I shall miss you more than words can say John. Love and heartfelt sympathy to Ivy, Ellen, Dan, Sue and the family.

Sylvia Davies
I Would just like to add my sincere sympathy,to John`s wife and family What a wonderful, man he was. I only heard about him on the radio, but he was such an inspiration to hear how he coped with his life. RIP.

Ant- S-O-T
Worked with John for 2 weeks (about ten years ago in debyshire). A proper nice guy. God Bless xx

Daniel Millward
RIP John,I was the person who organised the charity fund raiser for john and i lost touch with his other family members. would like to speak to them regarding any arrangements. I loved spending my time with john and he has really inspired me. If any of his family read this please call me 07588650530

Ian and Mary Edwards
A few years ago we met OB,and after a few more meetings we knew what a wonderful man John was.We will always remember,his warmth,his hospitality,his love of his family,having met Mrs O Brien,Ellen and Dan,its easy to see that warmth and love spraeds all through this lovely family.We had the pleasure of Johns Potteries Tours,and the oatcake breakfests,this was the decency of such a gentlemen,when he looked after guests it was always the best.His love of his city and football team,and his knowledge of soul music was immense,just like John.Stoke on Trent has lost one of his finest sons,we will miss him so much,and Ivy,Ellen and Dan,all take pride in the fact you had one of the finest sons,brothers,and fathers ever to grace the earth.love and respect JohnIan and Mary xxxxxx

Brav & Bernadette
We feel very honoured to have met such a beautiful man and will miss him dearly. Our thoughts are with Ellen, Sue and Dan. God bless you mate and Rest in Peace

Pat - Liverpool
Although I have only known John for a couple of years he was one of the most inspirational people I have ever met. The courage and tenacity he showed when dealing with his illness should serve as an example to us all when faced with much lesser problems. I would like to remember John laughing at a silly joke and enjoying a plate of Liverpool scouse which he said reminded him of his Gran's lobscouse, a great compliment! Much love and sympathy to Daniel, Ellen and Mrs O'Brien you have lost one of the best but he will always be with you. RIP OB. XXXX

Joan
I count myself very lucky to have known him.He was one of those rare people of whom you can genuinely say 'what you see is what you get'.Never pretended to be perfect and so proved that you don't have to be perfect to be truly good person.Personality plus with such a warm heart and soul - You will always be missed but never forgotten X

MIKE & LINDA
Followed OB's story on M.F show and met OB once which we considered a great privellage. It was easy to see you were so brave, corageous and determined through your battle with this cruel illness an example to us all. R.I.P my friend. Deepest sympathy to your family and friends

Malc Falle, Brittany,
I had the privilege to meet OB at the 2008 Crewe Charity night for Alzheimers organised by Pat, Joan and Ann. As I knew no-one at the venue OB and Barry (sorry but I cannot remember Barry's surname)took me under their respective wings and walked me around the venue introducing me to everyone.OB was in mellow mood and we had a couple of glasses of the amber nectar together and talked of soul music and our love for the Golden Torch as soulies do, I even have a couple of photographs of OB and me taken together which I treasure. I had heard about OB before I met him but he made no mention of his illness to me. Whilst walking around the venue with OB folks came over from all round the venue just to say hello, shake his hand or give him a kiss, he was obviously a much loved man. I was indeed lucky to spend an evening in this "gentlemans" company.I express my sincere condolences to OB's family and friends for their loss and pray that the good lord will help to ease their pain. I can only reiterate Kev and Maggie's words, so poignant but so true. OB Whilst we live. You live. You will never be forgotten. RIP my soul brother (Love & respect) Malc.

Pete C
On your way to a better place OB. Keep the Faith RIP

Ady Cattley Wath-upon-Dearne S.Yorks
I never met John, only through Mary's show, but i feel as though we have all lost a good friend. His comments and support of the show make it what it is; loved by all it's listeners, he will be sorely missed by all of us.

alan ankers
time will pass you by obie but you will never be for forgtten

IAN & ANGIE WILLS
RIP OBIE OUR THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AT THIS VERY SAD TIME RIP SOUL BROTHER

Phil Ankers
It was a pleasure to know him he wiil be surely missed a true soul boy keeping the faith in heaven till we meet again O.B R.I.P

Goldie Shell Ryan & Lesley & Baby Mia
WHAT EVER GRIEFS & JOYS BE OURS!!!!WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU OB!!! GOD GRANT US THE SERENITYamen

davo
I was very sad to hear yesterday morning of the passing of a great friend O.B.,first i'd like to send my deepest sympathy to his family,and just to say what a great loss he will be to all who knew him.Such brave and great person who's knowledge of soul music was second to none, i'm going to miss him so much.Rest in peace old friend.Davo

rob varey wheel
my deepest sympathy goes out to johns family what a grat guy RIP john

Bobby & Sue Millard, Perth OZZ
RIP Obie ,I did not no you but have followed your battle , through Marys web site and the wheel site , God Bless John , our thoughts are with you and your family at this time , Bless Bobby & Sue & all the soulies around Australia and the world

Steve B (outercicle SC) - Boothen Ender
I didn't know you as I only found the faith again after 40 years. I heard a lot about you so have a great second like soul mate.Love Steve and Veronica

freddie
Sad news to a fellow Stokie n soulie, lets hope they play ya Tunes up there God Bless (walk with a winner)go on Stoke make him proud

Brett
OB was a major player on the soul scene and a character whom we all loved dearly. I will treasure the memento he gave me to remember him by. The plaque where the Torch once stood in Tunstall, for which he was responsible, will be a fitting memorial to him. On this sad day we all feel how important OB’s presence was to us. Although we can no longer physically feel the warmth of his charm and friendliness anymore, he is still with us in our memories. A braver man I have yet to meet - RIP OB X.

monte mountford [ tunstall ]
john and myself go back a long long time, ,we went to the same schools,even on holidays together.he was a fantastic mate ,and a top notch person who would do anything he could for you.god bless his familey,I am totally in bits even though we all knew it was going to happen rest in peace mate you will be missed big style [monte]

Denis (West Sussex)
I unfortunately never met O.B., but from listening to this show for the last five years, he became a friend by proxy.My deepest sympathy to all the family and friends he has left behind. A life well lived and a man well loved.

hugsy
obe where ever you are play the sounds.golden torch sc club

Phil Teddie Sawyer
Obie, brought to life all the best of what I remember of friendship and comradeship among people who discovered their passion for life through soul music.

patrick paparelli USA
you put up an amazing fight rest in peace all my love to the family

Keith Beardmore
It is a very very sad day for everyone lucky enough to have known OB as a friend and also for all the soul fraternity who did not meet him.You Will Have To Wait Some Time Longer For Your Chance.A Very Warm And Special Person Has Left Us.

Brian (WORCESTER SOUL CREW)
did not know him or met him only knew of him from radio stoke but sounded an alround good guy!and will be sadly missed our best wishes go to his family at this time.

Neil Rushton
Very sad to hear this news.

Andy scoffin
Rip john such a sad loss but you will always be friend words fail me at the moment if I'm honest

Sylvia Dean
Joe and I met John through the Mary Fox Show. We became good friends over the last couple of years and shared our mutual love of soul and football. I feel honoured to have known such a warm hearted, articulate man with a great sense of humour.Our thoughts go out to his son Dan, Ellen ,Jo and all the family. RIP and KTF in heaven John.

Amo
Proud to have known OB as a friend, as well as soul music we also shared a passion for everything Stoke City FC related. Somes up OB on a text he sent me earlier this year telling me of his plight, it finished off the bad news with ...but at least I've seen Stoke back in the Premier League. As Maxine Brown says the bloke was "One In A Million". Gonna miss you mate. RIP OB. Keep The Faith Forever. Amo

Derek Whalley
Very saddened to hear of John's passing, did not know him I'm sorry to say i probably did not get the chance to talk to him but all the same we were all together in one enormous Soul family and that enough was a pleasure to know of this great man and inspiration to us all that what ever we get thrown at us if it be bad fight through it be strong and get what John achieved extra time to enjoy this wonderful music and life to the full.Dek (Crewe Soul).

Theresa and Adj
RIP OB all our love and thoughts are with Ellen and the family xxxxx