10/17/2026
Today, we mourn the passing of Patricia Watson, Stitch Buffalo’s beloved board president, trusted leader, and dear friend.
Pat shepherded Stitch Buffalo with kindness, grace, and astute leadership through the greatest period of growth in our history. Her perspectives on nonprofit management were invaluable, but what made Pat truly exceptional was the warmth and generosity she brought to everything she did. At every meeting and event, she made people feel welcome, always seeking meaningful connections with Stitch Buffalo’s mission, participants, patrons, staff, donors, and fellow board members.
Pat’s generosity extended well beyond her responsibilities as board president. An exceptional baker and hostess, she understood that caring for a community often begins with making people feel at home. When we offered hard-hat tours of our future space on Plymouth Avenue, Pat was right out front with homemade scones, welcoming supporters and neighbors alike as we imagined what our new home could become.
Above all, Pat was a friend and mentor to so many of us. We will remember her wonderful sense of humor, her gift for finding solutions that brought people together, and her unwavering ability to meet every challenge with kindness and generosity. She led by example, reminding us that strong leadership and genuine compassion are not separate qualities, but deeply connected ones.
Pat leaves an enduring legacy at Stitch Buffalo, woven into the organization she helped guide and the community she nurtured with such care. We are profoundly grateful to have known her, worked alongside her, and shared in her friendship. She will be sorely missed by all of us who treasured her presence in our lives.
Our hearts are with Pat’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. We honor her memory with gratitude and will carry her spirit of welcome, wisdom, and generosity forward in all that we do.
