The long-serving executive director of the WSBA, Paula C. Littlewood, died of pancreatic cancer on Dec. 14.
Paula led the organization from 2007 to 2019. During her tenure, she helmed many future-focused national and international legal efforts such as the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System and the American Bar Association’s Commission on the Future of Legal Services.
Legal communities around the globe are mourning the loss, with Paula having been known extensively for her innovative spirt, conviction, and leadership. At the WSBA, we also grieve for the loss of a friend. Paula knew every employee by name, made a point to learn our stories, and knew not only our job titles but our strengths.
“She treated me and my work with the highest level of respect and care,” recalls Service Center Representative Steve Carroll, who knew Paula for nearly two decades. “When I needed her support, she stood up for me, and I will never forget that.”
The WSBA plans to run a special tribute to Paula in the February issue of Washington State Bar News.
You can find links on where to share memories of Paula as well as a statement from her family here.
