WISDOM Member and Unsung Hero Juanita Flater Dies

 

The following statement was submitted by David Liners, Executive Director of WISDOM. 

WISDOM lost an unsung hero this past Friday, when Juanita Flater went to her eternal reward.  Juanita has been part of the Old Law Parole and Compassionate Release workgroup since it began.  She served faithfully as the secretary and the communications hub for the group, and she was constantly reaching out to legislators who represent her home of Brodhead about WISDOM issues.  She continued in the work through her 11 year battle with cancer, finally feeling a need to relinquish the role just two weeks ago.

A deeply Christian woman, Juanita first got involved with prison ministries in 2009 and began visiting Oak Hill Correctional Institution.  Through that ministry, she met her friend Michael.  Michael is parole-eligible.  Juanita has spent years encouraging Michael and advocating for him and for others who should be home. 

It is sad that Juanita's life in this world ended before Michael's release.  I believe, though, that Juanita remains with us in the struggle, perhaps more present and powerful than before.  It was a privilege to have known Juanita.  WISDOM is filled with so many ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things.  She is one example, one who I wish more of you could have known.

Here is Juanita's obituary and information about services.