Catherine Sabra Smith

Catherine Sabra Smith

1930-2024

Catherine Sabra Smith (nee Munson) passed away on June 3, 2024, in Los Lunas, at the age of 93.

She was born on Dec. 12, 1930, in Deming, N.M. Catherine was a dedicated educator, who left a lasting impact on the field of education. She started her career as a teacher in Silver City and the Cobre school system, teaching English and serving as the journalism sponsor for the yearbook and newspaper. Catherine also developed a teacher’s aide program for high school students aspiring to become teachers.

She later became the principal of Hurley Elementary School and was actively involved in the National Education Association of New Mexico (NEA-NM). Catherine’s advocacy for education extended to her roles on the New Mexico Board of Education and as a governing council member of the School of Dreams Academy.

In addition to her commitment to educational excellence, she mentored many young people through the Order of the Rainbow for Girls and as a 4-H leader. Catherine’s commitment to education was evident throughout her life, from her homeschooling by her mother to earning a Bachelor of Arts in education, a master’s degree in secondary education, an ed specialist in counseling, and an MBA, all from Western New Mexico University in Silver City.

In her personal life, Catherine is survived by her sister, Sabra Lee Humphrey; her daughter, Edith Smith; grandsons, Bryan Roberts, Le Len Roberts and James Smith; great-granddaughter, Megan Roberts; and several nieces and nephews and their families.

She is preceded in death by her husband, LeRoy; daughter, Emily Roberts; sister, JoAnn Young; and parents, James and DoraJo Munson.

Catherine was baptized in the First Christian Church in Deming, and was a member of the Georgetown Eastern Star Chapter with her husband, LeRoy, in 1952.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Georgetown Chapter No. 4 OES Scholarship fund.

Memorial services are scheduled for 2 p.m., Saturday, June 15.

Baca’s Funeral Home in Silver City is assisting with the arrangements.