KC event planner remembered for making space where people felt safe to have fun
Across Kansas City, Tracy Bobo was known as someone who created spaces where people could feel safe, welcomed and connected.
For nearly two decades, Bobo and his organization HBS (Hooks, Bobo, Smith) offered alternatives to the typical nightlife, building a reputation for curating upscale, community-centered events for those looking for more than just bars and clubs.
While Bobo became a beloved figure in the city’s social scene, seen by many as one of the pioneers behind Kansas City’s “grown and sexy” events, his sister Stasi Bobo-Ligon says she never fully realized how far his influence reached.
“He built his name on fun events, but to the community, he was much more than a party promoter,” Bobo-Ligon said. “He was loyal. He had a way of making people feel welcome and seen, so people naturally gravitated toward him.”
Tracy Bobo, an event planner, promoter, and co-founder of HBS, passed away on April 4 at the age of 54.
His sister said the overwhelming support and condolences from the community have shown just how much her brother meant to people.
“To me, he was always just my little brother. I didn’t see him as this big community figure until after he passed,” she said.
Sean Tyler, a friend since high school, remembers Bobo as someone who was often misunderstood but always authentic. He said that even as a teenager, Bobo was known for being blunt, honest, and unwavering in his convictions.
“I feel like we had the same nature,” Tyler said. “He was a solid dude, the kind of person who would do anything for you if you needed it.”
Tyler credits Bobo with shifting the city’s nightlife, steering people away from clubs and toward more mature, safe, and stylized experiences. Bobo focused on hosting events for the Black community that offered a sense of elegance without the worries of violence or conflict.
After laying a strong foundation, Bobo partnered with Steve Hooks and Kolby Smith to form HBS, a team committed to creating consistently safe, inclusive events for the metro area.
Bobo-Ligon recalls that even as a child, her brother was fiercely protective of those around him, something he carried into his career. She believes that trait made people feel secure at his events.
“He always had your back. He was always there, making sure nothing got out of hand,” she said.
Bobbi Mott, Bobo’s partner of 15 years, said that Bobo’s work was important to him, but family always came first.
“He was such a great father,” she said. “The love he showed his children, his sister, and me was incredible. He made sure we always knew how much we were loved.”
Though grieving his loss, Mott said she finds comfort in the joy Bobo brought to so many lives. Since his passing, the family has learned of countless quiet acts of kindness he performed without seeking recognition.
“There’s so much he did in terms of giving back and helping people in the city,” said Tyler. “You’d never know it, though, because he’d swear people to secrecy. He didn’t want praise — he just genuinely wanted to help.”
Several local venues, including The 6 Lounge and The Juke House, hosted tribute nights in Bobo’s honor. Alan Kneeland, co-owner of The Combine, also paid his respects.
“I just did something simple,” said Kneeland. “It’ll be weird not seeing him at the bar on Fridays, so I left a shot of Crown, a turned-up chair and a reserved sign with a wreath.”
Kneeland met Bobo five years ago, after hiring him to host one of the Combine’s first events. The restaurant gained its first wave of loyal patrons. He credits Bobo with helping not only his venue but many others across the city.
“He meant so much to this place and to so many others. He created experiences Kansas City hadn’t seen before,” said Kneeland.
Bobo’s funeral took place on April 19, with Tyler delivering the eulogy. Though it was a difficult moment, Tyler said he felt honored to try and capture the depth of Bobo’s legacy, not just as a friend, but as a force for good in the city.
“It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” said Tyler. “Tracy connected so many people and planted seeds that will keep growing, even if most never realize where they came from.”
Other Remembrances
Phillip Jones
Phillip Jones, veteran and FexEx manager died March 25.
Jones was born on Nov. 12, 1943, in Kansas City, Kansas to George and Violet Jones.
He graduated from Wyandotte High School in 1962 and was drafted into the United States Army where he served for three years. Jones then obtained a bachelor’s degree in business administration from John F. Kennedy College in Wahoo, Nebraska and later a master’s degree in business administration from National University in San Diego, California.
He worked for various companies including FedEx, where he served as the regional training manager , overseeing operations across ten states.
He is remembered by his siblings, Michael Jones, Sr., Debra Norman, Madelyn Robinson, Stephanie Grady, Rowena B. Hall and Valeria C. Jones along with a host of cousins and friends.
Karen Savwoir
Karen Savwoir, mother and retired bank worker died April 14.
Savwoir was born in Kansas City to Henry Savwoir Sr. and Mildred Mazin. She spent her early years in New Orleans, Louisiana living with her grandparents until returning to the Midwest to attend Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas.
She worked as a collection’s specialist for CitiGroup, where she worked until her retirement.
In 1969 she met Terry Rowe Sr. and they had one child in 1978. Though the couple was never married, they would remain together throughout their lives.
She is remembered by her son, Terry Rowe II; along with grandchildren, cousins and friends.
