Loving Anne

Last Saturday was the Celebration of Life for my wonderful wife Anne who died on August 14. We held it at Bryant Elementary, the school she taught at for 15 years as teacher librarian. The school auditorium/gym was the perfect location. We needed the space since over 400 people attended to celebrate Anne’s life. She touched a lot of hearts and minds. Co-workers, students, family, and friends paid tribute to Anne’s generous heart, can do attitude, and sense of humor (a recurring theme).

A special thanks to all of the Bryant staff and volunteers that helped plan and create the event. Many people contributed their time and made the event truly special. And a big thanks to Lisa Watkins-Scott who officiated the ceremony and to all of the people that shared heartfelt stories about what Anne meant to them. Another big thanks to Lynn, Steve, and Jesse for the wonderful singalong “Annie’s Song”. It was perfect.

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell attended and read a beautiful proclamation officially recognizing October 18, 2025 as Anne Aliverti Day. It will be recorded that way in Seattle’s records. Scroll down for the full text.

A few relevant links:

• 14-minute movie slideshow (contact me via e-mail or Facebook)
• Online memory board (Kudoboard) (contact me via e-mail or Facebook)
• PageAhead.org supports children’s literacy. If you feel inclined, you can make a donation in Anne’s honor.

Kate and I are doing okay but we miss Anne very much. The weight of planning the event has been lifted, but the sadness of losing Anne remains. I’ve read that grief is not linear and comes in waves. I’m feeling that firsthand as it has hit me hard this week many times. I miss my wife and best friend and Kate misses her mom. Time will help most likely, but it’s going to be a slow process.

Thank you all for your support. I wish you all the best. Here are some photos from the day including the program, table displays, the mayor reading his proclamation, the musical performance, and artwork the students created.

Here is the full text of the Mayor’s proclamation:

City of Seattle • Office of the Mayor
PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, Anne Aliverti dedicated 15 years of service as the beloved librarian at Bryant Elementary School, transforming the school library into a vibrant hub of imagination, learning, and connection for students, families, and educators alike; and

WHEREAS, Anne Aliverti inspired generations of young readers by fostering a deep love of books and storytelling, always greeting students by name, designing creative reading challenges, and ensuring that every child felt seen, valued, and encouraged to explore the world through reading; and

WHEREAS, under Anne Aliverti’s leadership, the Bryant Elementary library became one of the highest-circulating libraries in Seattle Public Schools, reflecting her commitment to literacy access, equity, and the joy of discovery; and

WHEREAS, beyond her role as a librarian, Anne Aliverti was a mentor, collaborator, and community builder – supporting fellow educators, leading professional development, and strengthening connections between families, schools, and the broader Seattle community; and

WHEREAS, Anne Aliverti’s enduring legacy lives on in the countless students whose lives she enriched, the colleagues she inspired, and the community she helped shape through her compassion, creativity, and commitment to learning; and

WHEREAS, the City of Seattle honors Anne Aliverti’s extraordinary contributions as an educator, librarian, and community leader – whose commitment to curiosity, creativity, and student-centered learning exemplifies the power of education – exemplifying our One Seattle vision.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BRUCE A. HARRELL, MAYOR OF SEATTLE, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM OCTOBER 18, 2025 TO BE
Anne Aliverti Day

Mayor Bruce A. Harrell
City of Seattle