Timothy Patrick Tobin

Tim graduated from Michigan State University, earning a B.A. degree from James Madison College in 1991. Tim was a true Spartan fan, watching as many football, basketball, and hockey games as possible.

Prior to law school, Tim worked at the U.S. Parole Commission within the Department of Justice from 1992 to 2000.

Tim attended the evening program at George Mason Law, working full time throughout law school. Through a very competitive write-on competition, he was selected to be on Law Review, a highly sought-after and prestigious achievement for law students. It signifies strong legal writing, research and analytical skills and he served as Articles Editor for Law Review. He graduated from George Mason Law School in 2001 with a J.D., magna cum laude.

Tim was a renowned and respected partner at Hogan Lovells specializing in privacy, data security and cybersecurity. An early leader in these fields, he provided counseling across multiple industries including technology, finance, automotive and entertainment.

Tim’s last years were marked by his struggle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but his identity was never defined by the disease and his spirit remained unshaken. He faced each day with remarkable strength and grace, inspiring everyone around him with his calm presence and unwavering determination. Tim possessed a rare blend of sharp insight and uplifting spirit—he could see through complexity with clarity and always brought lightness to even the most difficult moments. His advocacy for ALS patients and his tireless work on the Promising Pathway Act were not just professional pursuits, but deep personal missions rooted in empathy and hope. Working with Sen. Mike Braun, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, and other legislators, Tim sought legislation to create conditional or provisional approvals for drugs to more quickly offer options to treat serious or life-threatening diseases. At a Congressional hearing in 2023, Tim passionately argued that “PPA is common sense legislation that will speed access to promising drugs for conditions that do not have effective treatment options.” Unfortunately, much work remains to be done.

Tim left a lasting impression on all who knew him. His warmth was genuine, his humor subtle and mischievous, and his integrity unshakable. He was the kind of person who made others feel seen, heard and valued. Whether in the workplace, at home, or on the ice during a men's league ice hockey game, Tim approached life with patience, empathy and a quiet strength that lifted others up. He was a steady hand in turbulent times, a thoughtful listener, and a source of inspiration to many.

Tim is remembered most vividly for the love he poured into his family. He and L’Tonya shared a bond built on mutual respect, laughter and unwavering support—a true partnership in every sense. His devotion to Joshua and Rebecca was boundless, and he took immense joy in nurturing their passions and celebrating their achievements. Whether coaching and watching their hockey games, curating and sharing music playlists, helping them with homework, or simply sitting around a campfire, Tim created moments of connection that will be cherished forever.

His love for the outdoors was matched only by his love for those he shared it with. Biking through trails, camping under starlit skies, or relaxing on the beach in Duck, North Carolina—these were not just pastimes, but expressions of Tim’s deep appreciation for life’s simple, beautiful gifts.

Tim leaves behind his wife of 28 years, L'Tonya Tobin; his son Joshua Patrick and his daughter Rebecca Elizabeth; his brother Paul Tobin III, wife Linda; his sister Gina Tobin, life partner Kay; his brother Dennis Tobin, wife Teresa; nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends. Preceding him in death were his parents, Paul Edward Tobin, Jr. in 2021 and Anna Jane Tobin in 2024; mother-in-law Bertha Elizabeth Shepperson in 2022.

In celebration of the life of Timothy Patrick Tobin, a viewing and visitation with the family will be at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA, 22151, from 5-8 PM, Wednesday, 20 August 2025.

The following day, Thursday, 21 August, Tim will be honored at a funeral Mass at Queen of Apostles Catholic Church, 4401 Sano Street, Alexandria, VA, 22312, at 11 AM.

Following the Mass, Tim will be laid to rest in Fairfax Memorial Park, 9900 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA, 22032.

A repast at Queen of Apostles community hall will immediately follow the burial.

In lieu of flowers, Tim's wish was that you please consider making a donation to “I Am ALS” (https://iamals.org) or The Sean M. Healey and AMG Center for ALS (https://massgeneral.org/neurology/als).