Lauri Holton deGaris

Lauri Holton deGaris was a force of nature who passed peacefully on February 21, 2026 surrounded by loved ones. She lived with grace, purpose, and deep compassion for the world around her. Whether on the deck of a ship or flying above the Atlantic coastline, she saw beauty and possibility everywhere—and helped others see it too.

From her home on Amelia Island, Lauri founded Discover This Co., creating immersive tours that wove together history, wildlife, and local culture. Her gifts as a naturalist and storyteller led American Cruise Lines to partner with her company for shoreside programs from Maine to Miami. To countless guests, she was more than a guide—she was a trusted voice, a teacher, and a friend who shared her love of the sea with contagious joy. She said this was a job she was “born for”.

Known as the “Original Whale Ambassador,” Lauri devoted her life to protecting right whales and other marine life. She was one of the original founders of the Right Whale Action Group and later was a guiding light within the Amelia Island Whale Ambassadors. While working as an environmental consultant for Jacksonville University, she logged more than 200 hours conducting aerial surveys for research partners, tracking right whales and manatees. Her work contributed to the Manatee Protection Plan for the City of Jacksonville, leaving a lasting mark on the waters she loved. Her path also took her to the New England aquarium where she completed aerial observations of right whales.

A thoughtful writer for the Fernandina Observer, Lauri inspired readers to slow down, notice the natural world, and take responsibility for its care. Service was central to her life; for more than three years, she faithfully prepared weekly lunches for the Nassau Coalition for the Homeless without ever missing a week.

Lauri’s greatest joy was her family. She met her husband, Karl, at a fishing tournament, and they married in 2000. In 2002, Lauri was gifted her most important role as momma bear to their daughter, MaryEmma, who remains the light of her parents’ life.

She was predeceased by her father, Garland Holton.

She is survived by her husband, Karl; her daughter, MaryEmma; her mothers; her sisters; extended family; dear friends; and her beloved pets.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to MEd Special Needs Trust, PO Box 15173, Fernandina Beach, Fl 32035 for MaryEmma.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach located at 201 Jean LaFitte Boulevard Fernandina Beach on 3/15/2026 from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm.