It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our Executive Director, Wally Tablit.
Wally joined Disability Rights Washington in November 2025, bringing decades of leadership in disability inclusion and advocacy. He spent more than 25 years working alongside people with disabilities and championing efforts that create positive change in communities. His career started at Sound Mental Health and WISE, before moving to hold leadership roles at several disability agencies including Northwest Center, Atwork!, RespectAbility, and Relay Resources.
Wally was a local and national speaker, and consultant on community integrated employment, organizational development, equity, diversity, and inclusion. He also dedicated time with organizations whose work rippled impact in these areas like the Community Employment Alliance and the Association of People Supporting Employment First.
Wally believed that when people are given the chance and opportunities to engage fully in life, we all learn and grow. He brought that belief to his work for an equitable world for people of all abilities, identities, cultures, and experiences. That belief will remain a part of his legacy at Disability Rights Washington.
A karaoke enthusiast, a volleyball fan, and a lover of fashion, Wally brought light and boisterous laughs into every room. He shared his life in Seattle with his husband, Steve, and their funky mutts, Sammy Sandwich and Gizmo Gadget.
Our hearts are with Steve, Wally’s family and friends, and everyone whose lives he touched.
With incredible appreciation for Wally’s care, leadership, and legacy,
The staff at Disability Rights Washington