Christyne Anne Cavataio

Christyne Anne Cavataio, known affectionately as Christy to her friends and family, passed away on April 28, 2025, due to a medical emergency in Burke, Virginia. Born on July 2, 1958, in Kent, Washington, Christy's life was a testament to her enduring strength, compassion, and zest for life. Christy was a beacon of love and kindness to all who knew her.
Christyne was born to Carole Monk and Robert Belcher and growing up shared countless cherished memories with her sister Rhonda Mitchel, brother Ken Belcher (deceased), and brother Rob Freelove. Christy's life was further enriched by her loving partner, Evan Jones, and her beloved Havana Brown cats, Tango and Samba, who were her constant companions and sources of joy.
An advocate for education, Christy was immensely proud of her academic achievements. She completed her Bachelor's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling in 1983 and her Master's Degree in Public Administration in 1990, both from Seattle University. Her dedication was evident as she worked diligently, often full-time, to fund her education, a feat she regarded as one of her proudest accomplishments.
Christy's professional journey was marked by her unwavering commitment to helping others. She began her career at Kent Medical Center and Ryther Child Clinic and then became a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the Upward Bound Program. Her passion for vocational rehabilitation led her to positions at Washington University as a Vocational Programs Manager and at Seattle University as a Curriculum Developer and Trainer. The call to serve those with disabilities took Christy to Virginia, where she continued to make significant contributions as a Manager, Business Developer, and Coordinator of Special Employment Programs for the Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services. Her expertise and dedication were further recognized at the nonprofit organization called ServiceSource, where she served as a Division Manager of Rehabilitation Services. Christy's illustrious career culminated at the US Department of Education, where she held various roles and eventually rose to the position of Vocational Rehabilitation Program Specialist. After more than two decades of dedicated service, she retired in 2024, eager to embrace the new adventures that lay ahead.
Christy had a love for all living things and found wonder and inspiration in the intricacies of nature, from the tiniest insects to the grandeur of the animal kingdom. Her curiosity about the world around her was infectious, and she was often found exploring the beauty of the outdoors, with her cats not far behind. Those who had the pleasure of knowing Christy would describe her as loving, kind, and creative. She approached life with an open heart and an imaginative spirit, touching the lives of many with her genuine care and empathy. In the words of Helen Keller, a quote that Christy held dear, "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched-they must be felt with the heart." Christy lived by this philosophy, finding beauty in the connections she made and the hearts she touched throughout her journey.
Christy's legacy is one of compassion, perseverance, and a deep-seated belief in the potential of every individual. Her impact on the field of rehabilitation and the countless lives she touched will resonate long after her passing. Even in her passing, her compassion and generosity were evident as she ensured those in need would receive organ donations, specifically skin grafts to burn victims and cornea donations. We bid farewell to Christyne Anne Cavataio, a remarkable woman whose life was a tapestry of love, learning, and service. May her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all.
In lieu of flowers, if a donation is desired, please send in Christy's name to Friends of Fairfax Animal Shelter or The Lamb Center. These were two of Christy's favorites however a donation can be made to the charity of your choice. Thank you.