Christine Wadsworth Cairns (Christi), age 73, of Lakewood Park passed away March 19th, 2025, at Indian River Hospital. She is survived by her spouse, Kalani Dean Cairns, and her two daughters, Malia Lynn Cairns and Kelli Luana Shaddock. Neither daughter has any children. Christi is also survived by her brother, Mark Wadsworth.

Christi was born on April 21, 1951, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Her adoptive parents were Dr. Charles and Virginia Wadsworth. Though they have known each other since the fourth grade at Harbordale Elementary School, Christi and Kalani went on a date for the first time in August 1970 and have been together ever since. Christi graduated from Stranahan High School in June 1970 and lived in Fort Lauderdale until she and Kalani were married in June 1972.

Christi moved to Gainesville, Florida, with Kalani who was a student at the University of Florida. After he graduated from UF, they moved to Lakewood Park in August 1975 where he worked for the Smithsonian Institution at Harbor Branch.

Their first daughter, Malia, was born in July 1977 and their second daughter, Kelli, was born in May 1981, both in Vero Beach. The daughters are married and live nearby (Malia and Chris in north Stuart, Kelli and Joe in Lakewood Park).

Christi enjoyed being a stay-at-home mom with the girls as they were growing up. When they joined the Girl Scouts, Christi volunteered as the local Troop’s co-leader. She also volunteered at Lawnwood Elementary as an instructor of an art program titled, Meet the Masters, where she introduced to the students the backgrounds of various renowned artists. She always said participating in this program was very rewarding for her.

As Christi was growing up in Fort Lauderdale, she traveled with her parents throughout the United States as well as numerous European countries. But her favorite travel destination was the Florida Keys. The family would trailer their boat to the lower Keys to be with other family members and friends for several summers.

Christi loved animals, but especially cats. She rescued around 40 cats during her lifetime in addition to loving and caring for four dogs. For those interested in donating flowers, please make a donation to the animal shelter of your choice.

While living and raising a family in the Treasure Coast the past 49 years, Christi and Kalani were very fortunate to become friends and friendly with so many people. She is loved by many and will be missed. The family is holding a private service with a Celebration of Life to be determined at a later date.