Taylor Goodridge was a compassionate and spirited 17-year-old Native American enrolled in the Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians. Taylor was one-of-a-kind and had a personality that was unmatched. She was never one to back down from what she believed in or loved. Growing up her vibrancy showed in everything she took part in; her love for food (especially sushi), her excellent taste and artistic expression through makeup, her bright smile and her colorful hair. Taylor had a deep love for animals, especially dogs. Her connection with dogs was something truly special; they brought her comfort, companionship, and endless joy, while in return she gave them a home, their person to attach their hearts to, and the gift of love that many pups yearn for.

Tragically, Taylor’s life was cut short on December 20th, 2022, when she passed away due to a life-threatening and preventable infection that went untreated and ignored while at Diamond Ranch Academy, a facility within the Troubled Teen Industry (TTI)*.

If she were here at this very moment she would be the loudest voice for those who have been silenced, be it human or animal. While there is a huge hole in the lives of those who loved her, Taylor’s light and legacy of kindness along with her boundless love for animals lives on, inspiring all of us to do more to protect both the vulnerable and the voiceless.

Taylor was always the first to lend a hand when it came to caring for animals and had dreams of one day working with rescue dogs. After her passing, Taylor’s family wanted to work directly with a rescue organization that could help honor her love for animals. Her family connected with Happy Tails Happy Homes and has since saved multiple dogs to help them find their forever home.