Remembering Robert Sidbury, MD

Paying Homage to a Man That Led With Wisdom, Warmth and Humility

We are deeply saddened to share that our friend and colleague, Dr. Robert Sidbury, passed away unexpectedly on July 11 while attending a dermatology meeting in Chicago. We want to remember and honor him and his impact on the community.

Rob’s sudden passing is a devastating loss to the pediatric and dermatology communities in Seatle, to his colleagues around the world and to the many patients and families whose lives he touched. A vital and vibrant member of the University of Washington and Seattle Children’s communities since 2000, Rob led with wisdom, warmth and humility. He elevated the field of dermatology through clinical care, national leadership and mentorship.

As head of the UW Pediatrics Division of Dermatology, chief of Pediatric Dermatology at Children’s and a clinical adjunct professor in the UW Department of Dermatology, Rob combined clinical expertise with a collaborative spirit that unified and strengthened his teams. He contributed significantly to national guideline development, health policy and clinical research in dermatology. He led the Society for Pediatric Dermatology as its president and was named one of Seattle magazine's Top Doctors for many years, including in 2025.

Rob had a rare gift for mentorship. He believed in creating space where colleagues could grow and be authentic and supporting careers with kindness, clarity and quiet confidence. His legacy as a mentor lives on in the values and culture he cultivated among his team.

From a community pediatrician perspective, Rob was an invaluable resource in his expertise, his approachability and his kindness. His ability to partner with patients and with primary care physicians was a master class in working together to meet the needs of the children in our care.

Dr. Sidbury, thank you for all that you gave of yourself to your patients and the pediatric community.

For More Information

Read Dr. Sidbury’s Memoriam to learn more about his legacy and visit his online memorial page to share messages in tribute to his grace and wisdom.