Judith Kathleen Flenniken Halas

Judith Kathleen Flenniken Halas passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on April 4, 2025, in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. Born on November 5, 1941, in the sun-soaked beauty of Pearl Harbor, Naval Base. Judy lived a remarkable life filled with purpose, passion, and a deep commitment to both people and the planet.

She was the beloved daughter of the late Jane Wilhelmina Schnitzer Flenniken and Rdm. James Alexander Flenniken, a Silver Star–awarded officer of WWII, and the cherished sister of the late Sally Flenniken and of Shary Flenniken, who currently resides in Seattle. Judy’s early life was shaped by a family that valued education, creativity, and service—a foundation that would guide her throughout her life.

Judy shared over 50 years of marriage with the love of her life, John Cain Halas, who preceded her in death this past February. Their bond was one of extraordinary depth—heart to heart, hand in hand—not only in love, but in purpose. Together, they built a life of impact, blending their shared passions for education, environmental stewardship, and meaningful relationships. Their legacy as a team continues to inspire all who knew them.

As only a true mother could Judy poured out her warmth, wisdom and devotion upon children Debra and Keith Halas.

Professionally, Judy was a gifted educator. She retired from Coral Shores High School in Key Largo, Florida, where she taught with passion and left a lasting imprint on generations of students, but her reach extended far beyond the classroom.

Alongside her husband John, Judy co-founded Environmental Mooring International, Inc.—a pioneering organization devoted to protecting the delicate ecosystems of our coral reefs. Their work took them around the world, installing environmentally friendly mooring systems and training divers, fishermen, and government officials in marine conservation. Judy didn’t just talk about protecting creation—she rolled up her sleeves and did the work.

An avid reader and writer, she co-authored the “Diving and Snorkeling Guide to the Florida Keys”, and contributed regularly to magazines and newspapers. Her words carried not only knowledge but heart—sharing stories of the sea and the importance of preserving God’s creation.

Judy loved the arts, music, the ocean, and the Florida Keys.

Judy was a talented vocalist and performer. In 1963, she was noted for singing a duet with Don Firth at the Seattle Center Playhouse in a lively performance of "When You Comin' to Court Me?”

She became a Conch Republic phenomenon by singing a song that will forever be connected to her name, “The Mermaid and the Skin diver.”

To know Judy was to experience intelligence, humor, grace, and fierce loyalty. She believed in doing what was right, loving people deeply, and leaving the world better than she found it. Her life was a beautiful blend of intellect and intuition, science and soul, action and compassion.

As we celebrate the life of Judith Kathleen Flenniken Halas, we give thanks for the incredible woman she was. Her legacy lives on in the coral reefs she fought to protect, the students she taught, the family she loved, and the many lives she touched along the way. She ran her race with strength and dignity—and now she rests.