11/07/2025
Patrick McCurdy served as the guidance counselor at Pleasant Hill High School from 2000 to 2003. Though his time here was brief, his presence is etched in our hearts and in the memories of countless students in both the high school and middle school.
Patrick arrived with a life already richly and colorfully lived, and with a rare gift for reaching young people. He was genuine, relaxed, and deeply invested in the wellbeing of his students. He listened without judgment, challenged students to believe in themselves, and never passed by someone who was struggling without stopping to connect. His care was not casual — it was the kind that cost him sleep and made him relentless in his encouragement.
He shared his life with his wife, PHHS English teacher Katie Barr, and their young daughter Olivia, who were his joy and home. Patrick had known darkness in his life, but with Katie and Olivia he found light — a light he carried daily into his work with students.
On March 17, 2003, Patrick and Olivia were tragically killed in a Highway 58 accident. The loss stunned and gutted this community, and those who knew him still speak of him with reverence and gratitude for the way he showed up for young people.
This renovated library — a place for safety, questioning, learning, and growth — is dedicated in honor of Patrick, Katie, and Olivia McCurdy.
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The community is warmly invited to attend the dedication ceremony Friday, November 7th — 5:30 PM — Pleasant Hill Library
Please join us as we gather to remember, honor, and celebrate the lasting legacy of the McCurdy family.
