New Mexico native and renowned sculptor Pablita Ta-Nez-Bah Abeyta died on January 31, 2017, at her home in Washington, D.C. She was 63 years old. Pablita was born in Gallup, NM, on July 20, 1953, to Narciso Ha-So-De Abeyta, and Sylvia Ann (Shipley) Abeyta. Ms. Abeyta earned her Master of Public Affairs from the University of New Mexico in 1983. Moving to D.C. to work as a lobbyist for the Navajo Nation's Washington office, she was a leader in efforts to enact tribal amendments to federal environmental statutes such as the Clean Water Act.

From 1986-91, Pablita worked in the U.S. Congress for Colorado Congressman Ben Nighthorse Campbell, then the Office of Indian Affairs under U.S. Rep. Mo Udall of Arizona. She played a key role in legislation to establish the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) within the Smithsonian Institution. She transitioned to the Smithsonian's Government Affairs Office in 1991. As the Museum was being planned and built, Ms. Abeyta's work was instrumental in crucial legislation and fundraising, and she was special assistant to the Musuem's directors until retiring in 2011. She received numerous awards at NMAI, including Employee of the Year, an award since renamed in her honor.

Named for her grandmother, Pablita's Navajo name Ta-Nez-Bah translates as "One Who Completes a Circle." Her name and native heritage are reflected in her prize-winning sculptures, many of which were smooth, round and sensuous. Often her sculptures depicted women from her culture, reflecting the strength, beauty, and serenity of native women, who in life were her mentors and inspiration.

Pablita's art was included in an exhibition at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, and her sculptures are held in the permanent collection of the National Museum of the American Indian.

Pablita is survived by her partner Shaun Conway, formerly of Mancos; brothers Tony Abeyta, and Tom Warder (Judy); sisters, Benita Cooper, Alice Seely (David); and four nephews and seven nieces. She is preceded in death by her parents; her beloved sisters Elizabeth and Rosemary Abeyta; and brother-in-law Robert Cooper and two nephews. Donations can be made to the National Museum of the American Indian. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 25 at 6 pm at the NMAI in Washington, D.C. Plans are underway for a Celebration of Life in Santa Fe this summer.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Durango Herald on Feb. 14, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Pablita Abeyta

26 Entries

Graduate School Days c1982

Chip Calamaio

October 27, 2017

She was so very, very special... Her accomplishments and creativity are an inspiration to always keep chasing your dreams..

Pablita & Trish, Indian Market 2016

Bill & Trish Condit

August 18, 2017

I first met Pablita when we both staffed the US House Committee that Mo Udall chaired at that time, 1989. After moving to Santa Fe in 2002, my wife and I always sought out Pablita's booth at Indian Market. We have a treasured Corn Maiden of hers which will always remind of this beautiful soul we all lost way too soon. Vaya con Díos, Pablita. You will live in our hearts forever.

Michael Lewis

August 17, 2017

I've known Pabby since the 2nd grade. Blessings to the family and friends.

Rick Mendoza

August 17, 2017

Bye Pabby, Love Rick

Ron Archuleta

March 24, 2017

We will always cherish the time we spent with Pablita. We are blessed to have two wonderful pieces of her art. She will always be in our thoughts and hearts.

Jimmy & Esther Cook

March 24, 2017

Shaun, we are deeply saddened by the loss of the one most dear to you. Please know we will hold you and Pabilta's family in our hearts and prayers.

Diane Dillon Muller

March 24, 2017

I only knew her through Shaun and never got to meet her. Knew she must have been very special as is lifelong family friend, Shaun. He is still making an impact on people as a true friend. It sounds like she is still living through her art and people who she touched. Many Blessings,

Michele Sengsourinh

March 24, 2017

Pabs loved everyone and everyone loved her. She will always be remembered.

Angela Taylor

March 2, 2017

I met Pablita about a year ago.I was drawn to her beautiful spirit.My heart is saddened to here she has passed away. I am honored to have know her for that short period of time.Rest in peace Pablita.

March 1, 2017

My sincere condolences. May you find comfort in your loving memories and Jesus's words at John 6:40.

D. Romans 15:33 Andrews

February 28, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

A nice day in New mexico

February 27, 2017

We will deeply miss you
Luella & Phil Brown

Linda

February 25, 2017

Especially for Shaun: you are so blessed to have been with her in life. She sounds like an exceptional person.

February 25, 2017

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

February 23, 2017

I am deeply sorry for the loss of Pablita. May God's loving kindness bring you peace and comfort during this sad and difficult time. Psalms 29:11

Trudy Kareus

February 19, 2017

Your beautiful sculpture sits in a place of honor in my home, dearest Pablita, as a reminder of your beautiful spirit. With much love, Trudy Kareus

Carol Knight

February 19, 2017

So sad to lose our dear friend Pablita. But her beautiful spirit, and our love for her, endure.

sandie starr

February 19, 2017

Until we meet again my dear friend. Thank you for all the beauty you have brought to this world. Sandie Starr

February 18, 2017

I am saddened by the loss of Pablita who I worked with 30 years ago to ensure that the tribal amendments to the Clean Water Act were made law. Her life's work as an artist and government professional were amazing and leave a great legacy. Robert Martin former EPA National Ombudsman.

Rose Hunt

February 17, 2017

such a great loss for all of us, but her smile is forever with us

cate stetson

February 17, 2017

Walked and worked in great beauty, she did.

Cynthia Vahle

February 16, 2017

I will forever cherish my memories of Pablita as my heart breaks at her passing so young.

Margie Harper

February 16, 2017

I had the pleasure of meeting Pablita at Santa Fe Indian Market in August 2015. I purchased 5 of her lovely individual corn sculptures & wish I had acquired more as each one warms my heart. She was kind enough to pose for a photo with her corn pieces & she also signed her business card for me. I'm saddened by her passing, but thankful to have met her. I've been collecting SW Pueblo pottery for 30 years. I could tell that Pablita loved her chosen art form as she was so happy to talk about it with me. I will always remember her beautiful smile & gentle spirit. Love & Light Pablita.

Brian Midgett Sr

February 16, 2017

From a beloved friend, you will be missed

Amy Ballard

February 15, 2017

I was so lucky to know her and work with her on NMAI. Her smile and wise counsel will always be remembered. A very special person whom I learned a lot from.

Pablita posing with several of her sculptures (2002)

Jane Wilson

February 13, 2017

Pablita's balance of emotional and intellectual intelligence allowed her to bring both her intellectual gifts as well as her incredibly empathetic perspective to any challenge. What an amazing friend! I miss her sorely. My deepest condolences to Shaun, and to her family and all those whom Pablita touched with her life-giving energy.

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