BREAKING: Robley Levy, a beloved former Second District Supervisor for Santa Cruz County, has died at the age of 90. She passed away on December 9, 2025, in her La Selva Beach home, where she lived for over six decades. Levy’s death marks a significant loss for the community she tirelessly served and nurtured.
Levy was instrumental in shaping environmental policies during her tenure from 1980 to 1992, advocating for the protection of coastal resources and agricultural lands in the Pajaro Valley. Her efforts led to the establishment of multiple community parks, including Freedom Lake Park and Willowbrook Park, enhancing the quality of life for residents in her district.
In a statement, her family expressed their grief and pride, highlighting her deep commitment to the community and her legacy as a champion for environmental and social causes. “She was not just a supervisor but a mentor and a friend to many,” they noted.
Robley Levy’s work did not stop at local parks. She was a driving force behind the acquisition of three regional parks: Polo Grounds County Park, Anna Jean Cummings Park, and Quail Hollow Park. Her legacy includes the preservation of the La Selva Beach Library within the County Library System, showcasing her dedication to education and community resources.
Born on March 24, 1935, in Santa Monica, California, Levy overcame early challenges raised by a single mother. She excelled in her education, eventually graduating from St. John’s College in 1956. Levy’s career began as a technical writer in New York City before she moved to California, where she became deeply involved in local governance.
Her political journey included organizing the League of Women Voters of Santa Cruz County and serving on various committees, including the California Regional Coastal Commission appointed by Governor Jerry Brown in 1978. Levy was a pioneering figure in advocating for women’s leadership in government roles.
Beyond her political achievements, Levy was a passionate artist and theater lover. In her later years, she studied dramatic literature and actively participated in local theater groups, including the Aptos Saturday Shakespeare Group. Her creative pursuits were a testament to her vibrant spirit and love for the arts.
Levy is survived by her three children—Rebecca Levy, Barnaby Levy, and Elizabeth Levy—and her grandchildren, who will honor her memory. The family invites the community to celebrate her life in the Spring. For more details, they encourage reaching out via email at [email protected].
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. John’s College or the Robley and Fred Levy Scholarship Fund at Cabrillo College. Levy’s impact on the community will be remembered by all who knew her, as she leaves behind a powerful legacy of environmental stewardship and community service.
