Ouita Rea McPherson

Ouita Rea McPherson, 72, died Tuesday, January 16, 2018 in Albuquerque, NM surrounded by her family.  She was born March 27, 1945 in Alice, Texas to her mother Jackie E. Gabbard and father Isaac C. Gabbard.  Ouita began elementary school in Eunice, NM where she graduated from Highschool in 1963. During her early twenties she married Stan McPherson from Hobbs, NM who served in the US Army in Vietnam and died there in service to his country.   Ouita went on to attend New Mexico State University, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. 

After graduating, Ouita relocated to Albuquerque, NM where she married Al Robison, began a long career as a kindergarten teacher, gave birth to her sons, and obtained her Master’s Degree in Education.  She retired from Albuquerque Public Schools.  Ouita’s former students and families continued to be part of her life, stating often how her influence positively impacted their lives.  Ouita was a talented textile artist, gifted as a seamstress and her sense of style and design was impeccable.  She was an animal lover, supporting a variety of causes for the humane treatment of all animals.  She was a voracious reader, especially mysteries, instilling the love of books in her children and grandchildren.

Ouita is survived by her sons, Justin Robison and his wife Allison Yates, William Robison and his two sons, Isaac and Andres. She is also survived by her sister, Donna Good and her daughter Carlista Patterson and husband Larry and son Rick Good.  Ouita is survived by her brother James Gabbard and his wife Brenda and their daughter Lara Russell and husband Clint, son Joe Fisher and wife Gina, and son Jayson Fisher and wife Ellen.  Ouita is also survived by her brother Troy Schooley and wife Patty.  Ouita was especially close to a group of female cousins that met for get togethers throughout their lives.  Also surviving Ouita is Justin and William’s sister Alexis Davis and Ouita’s fellow grandmother Deborah Bradshaw.  She is survived by many lifelong friends, fellow educators, and neighbors including Patti, Eileen, Stephanie, Ginny and Art, Gail, Kate, Roberta, and Connie and others who touched Ouita’s life.

A celebration of Ouita’s life will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Daniels Funeral Services at 4310 Sara Rd. in Rio Rancho.   In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Animal Humane New Mexico.  Later, Ouita will be interred at Santa Fe National Cemetery where her late husband Stan is buried.