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Beverly J. Oben
1943 - 2021
Condolences
When I think of Bev and my time with her on the board of the Arts Center, the word that comes to mind is "lighthearted," in the broadest sense of the word. She had a wonderful smile and a great sense of fun, was cheerful even when the work was tedious (and often pitched in to do things no one else wanted to tackle), and had a warm, welcoming presence that I always appreciated. I loved watching her go deeper into her work as an artist over the years, and am so grateful for the role she played in keeping the Arts Center moving in a positive direction. I will remember laughing with her in the gallery while we worked on projects together, especially at a funny or surprising comment she made, and am sorry she is gone so young, echoing what Bonnie said, especially so young at heart.
Bev was loved as a member of our Penn Yan artist community. She worked tirelessly to keep the Arts Center running as we grew from Elm Street to Main Street. She was a fun Red Hat sister as well. Everything her daughter wrote about her is a terrific tribute to the woman she was. So sorry to lose her so young, especially young at heart.
Bonnie Barney
Carrie what a spot on remembrance of you mother it is how as I remembered her way back in High School (OFA CLASS of 61) 60 years ago . I learned of your mother's passing about 1am on Saturday morning after returning to Owego from the Sprint car races in Dundee Friday night .You mothers cousin Pat Brainard Maki (dear friend) had e mailed me . We exchanged mails in the wee hours of Saturday morning .I remember your grandmother working at the DMV office on Court Street in Owego . I remember I got my drivers permit from her now 62 years ago . And in later years I worked with your cousin Tom Westbrook and knew his wife Peggy well. And in later years than that I meet Fred. All wonderful folks . And again reading your memories of your mother and the passion you wrote it with . Never having met you my thoughts are . "THE APPLE DOES NOT FALL FAR FROM THE TREE" .
God Bless you all.
Dear Mrs. Moulton, Mr. Moulton, Maggie & Charlotte -
I am so sorry to hear of your loss and am sending all my love your way! I remember hearing about your mom & grandmother from Maggie when we were in elementary and middle school together, and from those conversations I know how much she was loved. Please know I'm thinking of you <3
The last time I saw her was via Zoom. She and Carrie were on a dock in Key West, a favorite vacation spot. She was up for adventure and trying new things. Her painting was a source of both pleasure and pride. She was really good. We kept in touch for many years. Our families, activities, pets (her cats, my dogs) whatever was going on…there was always something to share. When my husband died, she was on the phone to support me. I missed her this past year, always shall.
I graduated with Bev. She was a sweetheart. Since graduating we lost touch but several years ago we caught up on Facebook. She was a great person and everyone liked her. Saying prayers for Bevs family and friends too look over you all. My heart is very sad
So many memories of mom… Spontaneous trips to go gambling, watching Earth, Wind and Fire with a box of wine, shopping trips, drives down to South Carolina and more. Mom had the warmest hug and knew when you needed one. She was gentle, loving, warm and had an incredible gift of intuitiveness and empathy. She had patience of a saint until you really pissed her off.. then, watch out. She was sassy, feisty, a little flaky but as many close to her knew “crazy like a fox”. My mom was sexy and passionate. She was at times brutally honest. Mom was the absolute BEST person to watch stupid, funny movies with… she would laugh so hard until tears rolled down her face. Her laugh was infectious and contagious. She was my friend but I was also afraid when I knew I said or did something wrong and was in trouble. You knew you were in trouble because she would start blinking. Her hands were soft. Her feet were tiny. Her love was immense. She had the bluest eyes and they sparkled. I want to lay my head next to her because I loved when she would rub my head and play with my hair. My God… this pain is immense. I am so grateful for the woman my mother was (a true badass) but so loving and gentle and genuine. I’m not sure how to handle this. It wasn’t supposed to happen this soon. I pray that I’ll feel her with signs, warmth, whispers in the wind and moments of absolute peace and calm. Mom- if you feel/ see this.. please know how deeply you are loved and missed. Watch over us all… especially Bill. You were the love of his life and he became our amazing father. We need him. Send more bluebirds and signs that you’re not too far away. I love you…. So very much. Heartbroken but so grateful for having the honor of you being my mom.