Robley Levy, a prominent figure in Santa Cruz County’s environmental and cultural development, passed away on December 9, 2025, at her home in La Selva Beach, where she had lived for over six decades. Born on March 24, 1935, in Santa Monica, California, Levy’s influence as a community leader and advocate for strong environmental policies left a lasting legacy.
During her tenure as Second District Supervisor from 1980 to 1992, Levy played a pivotal role in shaping Santa Cruz County’s environmental landscape. She was a crucial third vote on the Board of Supervisors, supporting legislation that safeguarded the coastal resources and agricultural lands in the Pajaro Valley. Levy was particularly proud of the numerous community and regional parks established during her time in office. When she began her role, the Second District had only one neighborhood park. By the time she left, her efforts had resulted in the development of several parks, including Freedom Lake Park, Hidden Beach Park, Seascape Park, Willowbrook Park, and Corralitos Park.
Legacy of Environmental Advocacy
Levy’s commitment to environmental preservation extended to the acquisition of regional parks. Under her leadership, the Board of Supervisors successfully purchased Polo Grounds County Park in Aptos, Anna Jean Cummings Park in Soquel, and Quail Hollow Park in the San Lorenzo Valley. In the early 1980s, she also championed the preservation of the La Selva Beach Library as part of the County Library System, reflecting her dedication to community resources.
Her contributions to local governance included organizing the League of Women Voters of Santa Cruz County, where she served as the first president. Levy was appointed to various county committees and commissions, including the Planning and Transportation commissions and the Local Agency Formation Commission. In 1978, she was appointed to the California Regional Coastal Commission by Governor Jerry Brown, further emphasizing her commitment to environmental issues.
Levy’s early life shaped her values and ambitions. Raised in Washington, D.C., by her single mother, she received a strong education that propelled her toward success. After graduating from St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland, in 1956, she pursued a career as a technical writer and editor in New York City before moving to California.
A Passion for the Arts and Community
In addition to her political career, Levy was an accomplished artist. She studied printmaking and painting at Cabrillo College and Monterey Peninsula College, exhibiting her work with Santa Cruz Open Studios. Her passion for the arts was complemented by her love for theater. In her later years, she engaged deeply with dramatic literature, participating in the Aptos Saturday Shakespeare Group and supporting local theater productions, including Santa Cruz Shakespeare and the Jewell Theater.
Robley Levy is survived by her three children: Rebecca Levy (married to Robert Benson) of Aptos, Barnaby Levy (married to Rosanna Gamson) of Los Angeles, and Elizabeth Levy of Brooklyn, New York. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Clementine and Delilah Gamson Levy, and Zachary Benson. Her family has expressed their pride in her achievements and the impact she had on her community.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland, or to the Robley and Fred Levy Scholarship Fund at Cabrillo College. A celebration of Robley’s life is planned for the spring, with further details available by emailing the family.
Robley Levy’s legacy as a dedicated public servant, artist, and advocate for environmental preservation will continue to inspire future generations in Santa Cruz County and beyond.
