We are incredibly saddened to hear the news of the passing of Patti Southard, a driving, visionary force in regenerative design + social equity here in Seattle. Patti served as Program Manager at King County GreenTools, championing for green buildings. She was instrumental in advocating for Living Buildings, spoke at the Living Future unConference every year, and was honored as a Living Building Challenge Hero.

But Patti was also so much more than that. Our staff will remember her larger-than-life laughter, her passion for justice, and the bright light she brought with her everywhere, welcoming us all to this community. The incredible impact she had on our team is clear:

“Patti was really something special – a mentor to many of us and someone who fearlessly held people accountable from a place of love. We need so many more like her. I will miss her very much.”

“Patti was a tireless and passionate force for progressing green buildings in the Cascadia region. I first met her in 1999 when she worked for the Environmental Building Center and then we worked together while I was at the City of Seattle to get green buildings legislated in Seattle and the State.”

“Patti Southard will be greatly missed but her contributions to the green building community, in the region and beyond, will continue to impact us all. Her unstoppable exuberance and action-oriented approach has shaped us.”

“I’m so grateful for every wide smile and hug Patti gave me — and she gave a lot to all of us — because the incredible work she did and the community she built was so personal. She gave her heart and soul. Every time Patti was in the room there was an elevated sense of energy, openness and acceptance that I could never explain and you certainly can’t replace. I can’t imagine the next Living Future or green building event without her… I will miss her so much.”

ILFI will pay tribute to Patti’s legacy in the coming weeks. Our deepest condolences to Patti’s family, her sister Ellen, and her countless friends and colleagues.

With aching hearts and deep gratitude,

Amanda Sturgeon, CEO + the ILFI team

Written By

ILFI Staff