Community Leader Robley Levy Passes Away at 90, Remembered for Legacy

Robley Levy, a prominent figure in Santa Cruz County’s history and a passionate advocate for environmental preservation, passed away on December 9, 2025, at her home in La Selva Beach, California. She was 90 years old. Levy’s impact on the community spanned decades, from her role as the Second District Supervisor to her contributions as an artist and theater enthusiast.

Levy served as a critical member of the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors from 1980 to 1992. During her tenure, she was instrumental in enacting strong environmental policies that protected coastal resources and agricultural lands. She particularly championed the establishment of community parks, transforming the landscape of her district. When she took office, there was only one neighborhood park; by the time she left, several parks, including Freedom Lake Park and Hidden Beach Park, had been created, significantly enhancing community access to green spaces.

Parks and Environmental Advocacy

Levy’s dedication extended beyond neighborhood parks. She played a vital role in the county’s acquisition of three regional parks: Polo Grounds County Park, Anna Jean Cummings Park, and Quail Hollow Park. Her efforts were pivotal in preserving natural spaces for future generations. Another notable achievement was her work to ensure the La Selva Beach Library remained part of the County Library System in the early 1980s.

In addition to her environmental initiatives, Levy was a strong advocate for women’s representation in government. She was the first president of the League of Women Voters of Santa Cruz County and served on various county committees and commissions, including the Planning and Transportation Commissions and the Local Agency Formation Commission. Her commitment to public service also earned her an appointment to the California Regional Coastal Commission by Governor Jerry Brown in 1978.

Levy’s journey began on March 24, 1935, in Santa Monica, California. Raised by her single mother in Washington, D.C., she received an excellent education, attending prestigious schools such as the Walton School and Sanford Preparatory School. She graduated from St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland, in 1956, before embarking on a career as a technical writer and editor in New York City.

A Life Full of Passion and Service

Her life took a significant turn when she met her husband, Fred Levy, while traveling in Europe. The couple settled in California, where they raised their three children, Rebecca, Barnaby, and Elizabeth. Fred’s career as an English instructor at Cabrillo College further solidified their family’s connection to the community, and Robley embraced her roles not just as a mother but also as a community leader.

After her time on the Board of Supervisors, Levy remained active in various organizations, including the Cabrillo Foundation and the Live At Home Foundation. She also pursued her passion for the arts, becoming a printmaker and painter and participating in local exhibitions.

In her later years, Levy continued to nurture her love for theatre, studying dramatic literature and participating in the Aptos Saturday Shakespeare Group. Her enthusiasm for the arts was a testament to her vibrant spirit and commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of Santa Cruz County.

Robley Levy is survived by her children and her grandchildren, who carry forward her legacy of community service and dedication. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to St. John’s College or the Robley and Fred Levy Scholarship Fund at Cabrillo College.

A celebration of Levy’s remarkable life is scheduled for the Spring, with details available by contacting her family via email. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her contributions to the community will continue to be felt for years to come.