Allegra Jean Hanson

Allegra Hanson, age 74, of Albuquerque, NM, died on Monday, December 30, 2019. Allegra was born in Roswell, New Mexico to J. Kenneth Smith and Alice (Reischman) Smith. Allegra graduated from Roswell High School in 1963. She graduated from the University of New Mexico with a degree in education in 1967. Allegra was an art educator for the Albuquerque Public Schools for more than 25 years.

Allegra’s dedication to children continued after retirement through her volunteer work with Wise Men and Wise Women where she mentored students in need of a positive adult influence. Allegra was also instrumental in funding the J. Kenneth Smith Bird Sanctuary in Roswell through the J. Kenneth and Alice Smith Family Foundation. The Bird Sanctuary was one of Allegra’s favorite places to spend time with her friends and family.

Allegra was preceded in death by her parents and her two sisters, Debra Witcher and Kenda Smith. Those surviving her include her brother, Steven Smith (Kathy); niece, Barbara Evans (Bryan); and nephew, Kenneth Smith, all of Roswell, NM. Allegra also leaves behind many beloved cousins, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Among Allegra’s best qualities was the love and dedication she showed to her friends. Many close friends survive her, most notably Buck Rhodes, Sandy Garriott-Stejskal, Susy Garriott and Mary Voldahl. Allegra also appreciated her women’s group friends, some of them going back 46 years, who offered her much support over the years. She also leaves behind her beloved Esther Duarte, who cared for her house, garden, and assisted Allegra for over 30 years. She leaves behind her beloved cat, Tanner, who she adopted from the F.A.T. Katz rescue.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Allegra’s life on Friday, January 17, 2020, 1:00 p.m. at FRENCH – University. Reception to follow at same location at 2:00 p.m. At her Memorial we invite family and friends to briefly share what was meaningful or memorable about their relationship with Allegra, or any brief inspirational quotes, poems, or blessings they may have for Allegra.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the J. Kenneth Smith and Alice Smith Family Foundation, P.O. Box 2527, Roswell, New Mexico 88202-252; F.A.T. Katz, P.O. Box 90394, Albuquerque, NM 87199-0394 or FatKatzAbq@gmail.com; or a donation to an organization of your choice.