Christine Elizabeth Alder

It is with profound love and heartbreak that we announce the passing of Christine Elizabeth Alder, who was born on April 14, 1949, in Mombasa, Kenya to the late Ethel Harmen and Hobart Melville Owen-Thomas.

Christine passed away in 2025 in Fort Myers, Florida, in the loving arms of her adoring daughter, Michelle Elizabeth Alder, born in Toowoomba, Australia. She departed this life surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of beauty, laughter, and resilience that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

Christine was predeceased by her beloved sister Pamela “Puggy” Steidinger and brother-in-law Jochen Steidinger, and is lovingly remembered by their daughter Silke Steidinger of London and Lake Constance, Germany. She was also preceded in death by her sister Simone Owen-Thomas, who passed away in 2025.

She is survived by her adoring daughter Michelle; her grandson Jordan Caylor Anthony Fray and his wife Lauren Fray of Colorado, USA; her beloved brother Hayden Owen-Thomas; her niece Celine Owen-Thomas and husband Ian Jellson with their daughters Eloise and Madeleine of London; and her nephew Roderick Owen-Thomas and wife, with their sons Grayson and Ellis, currently residing in Dubai.

Christine was formerly married to John Charles Alder, who passed away on July 4, 2022. Though divorced, they maintained a cordial and respectful relationship.

Beyond her family, Christine’s life was deeply enriched by friendships that endured for decades. She will be especially missed by Joanne Bock and Linda Green of Virginia Beach/Norfolk, Virginia; and by Michael A. Pflaum, who brought her a jelly donut every morning, and her newer but beloved friend Paul Harris, with whom she shared many wonderful meals, stories, and laughter—both of Fort Myers, Florida.

Christine was known for her beauty, her sparkling eyes that shone brightest when she laughed or was up to something mischievous, and her unmatched sense of fashion and style that she wore with grace and confidence. Her sense of humor was sharp, witty, and unforgettable, and her smile could light up a room. Though she could be stubborn at times, she always acted from a place of love, kindness, and forgiveness.

Her passions were many: she loved answering the most obscure trivia, especially when it came to watching Jeopardy!; filling her home with music from Kris Kristofferson, Vince Gill, Reba McEntire, and endless Christmas carols that matched her abundance of holiday decorations; enjoying a good glass of wine with friends; and traveling the world with unbridled enthusiasm. She was also a gifted writer, capturing stories of her youth in Africa and her travels with such vivid detail that her readers felt transported.

Christine was a woman of adventure and athleticism, an avid diver who meticulously recorded her dives, a skier, a tennis player proud of her trophies, and a boating enthusiast for a time. She was also a skilled seamstress who could sew entire outfits, including intricate Halloween costumes for Michelle — her two favorites being “ET” and “Bat Girl.” She loved to cook and entertain, hosting gatherings that blended delicious food with laughter and joy.

A lifelong cat lover, she shared her life with many feline companions, including Toots, Felix, Oscar, Peaches, Sebastian, Foopy, and her most beloved, Toto. Towards the end of her life’s journey, she also fell in love with Boston Terriers—Sassy, Leah (who was by her side at all times), and Stitch, who stepped in with cuddles after Leah’s 19-year journey ended, faithfully taking over her job. She also adored Walter and Winter, who watched over her with love and concern, and to whom she snuck little treats with delight.

Professionally, Christine excelled as a legal case manager for personal injury law firms, where her dedication, intelligence, and compassion earned her deep respect.

Her unique background and exposure to travels across the globe afforded her a rich life with unparalleled experiences, friendships, and stories.

But above all, Christine’s greatest role was being a mother. To Michelle, she was a guiding light, a fierce protector, and her dearest friend. Their relationship was filled with laughter, long talks, shared secrets, and unwavering devotion. Christine’s love for her daughter was boundless, and Michelle’s love and care brought Christine comfort until her very last moment. That love will remain the most enduring part of her legacy.

Christine will be remembered as a woman of beauty, wit, courage, and compassion. Her family, friends, and all who were touched by her presence will carry her spirit in their hearts forever.

A celebration of life will be planned for April of 2026 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. All are welcome.

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