It is with heavy hearts that we, the Nashville Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMAnash), come together to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Curt Moody FAIA, NOMAC founder and chairman of Moody Nolan, the nation’s largest Black-owned architecture firm. Curt was more than a visionary architect; he was a friend, a mentor, and a guiding light for countless individuals in our industry. His unwavering support of NOMA, and particularly of our Nashville chapter, has left an indelible mark that will endure for generations to come.  As NOMAnash member Brian Tibbs, FAIA, Managing Partner and Director of Nashville Operations at Moody Nolan, so beautifully stated, “Curt was more than a boss or mentor to me; he was the inspiration that anything is achievable to those who work hard with purpose-driven objectives. This is a sentiment that I believe resonates with many of us who had the privilege of working alongside Curt”. Brian’s words encapsulate the profound influence Curt had on all who knew or knew of him, inspiring generations of architects to pursue their goals with vision and determination.

Curt’s relationship with Nashville ran deep, beginning with his pivotal conversations with former mayor Phil Bredesen that led to the establishment of Moody Nolan’s Nashville office. Over the years, his firm contributed significantly to shaping our city’s landscape, working alongside organizations like the Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency (MDHA) and Nashville’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Curt’s dedication to elevating minority voices in architecture was matched only by his commitment to giving back to the communities that shaped him.

A cornerstone of Curt’s legacy was his creation of the Legacy Project, a remarkable initiative that provides homes to families facing housing crises. These homes, built in disadvantaged neighborhoods in the cities where Moody Nolan has offices, stand as symbols of hope and opportunity. The most recent Legacy House, built in the Napier Sudekum area here in Nashville, is a testament to Curt’s belief in the power of architecture to uplift and transform lives. His vision for this project reflects his deep compassion and enduring commitment to creating spaces of dignity for those most in need.

Curt’s passing leaves a profound void, but his spirit lives on in the projects he championed, the lives he touched, and the firm he built. In lieu of flowers, his family has asked that we continue supporting the Legacy Project, ensuring that this vital work continues. The next home will be built in Chicago, and we know that Curt’s legacy of generosity and leadership will continue to inspire us all.

We extend our deepest condolences to Curt’s family, friends, and colleagues. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose, conviction, and an unshakable commitment to creating spaces that uplift the human spirit.

Make donations to the Legacy Project via the link below:

https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/YK2CQD4GEDPLG

Learn more about the Legacy Project here:

https://moodynolan.com/projects/legacy-house-nashville/

https://moodynolan.com/projects/legacy-project/