OCEAN COUNTY — The Beachwood community is mourning the loss of Mary F. Cairns, a longtime volunteer, past captain and life member of Beachwood EMS, who died peacefully on December 31, 2025. She was 76.
Cairns, a resident of Beachwood, passed away at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital surrounded by family. Her death prompted an outpouring of tributes from emergency responders, public officials and residents who remembered her decades of service and compassion.
Beachwood EMS officials described Cairns as a devoted leader whose steady guidance and mentorship shaped generations of volunteers. She was known for her deep commitment to public service and her willingness to support others with patience and experience.
In addition to her EMS service, Cairns also served the borough as a Class I officer and crossing guard with the Beachwood Police Department. Colleagues said her kindness and genuine care for others defined her as much as her professionalism.
Born in West New York, Cairns was raised in Toms River before settling in Beachwood with her husband, William “Bill” Cairns. The couple shared 39 years together. She worked in advertising and sales for Adelphia Cable before becoming self-employed and later entering public service.
Cairns was active in several civic and political organizations, including the Beachwood Republican Club and the Ocean County Federation of Republican Women. Friends also remembered her creative spirit, love of crafting and floral design, and her enthusiasm for travel. Known affectionately as a “cruise queen,” she and her husband took 28 cruises together. She also enjoyed trips to the casino and time spent with family at a favorite country camp in New York.
She is survived by her husband, Bill; sons Jason Froberg of Lacey and William Cairns III of Bayville; five grandchildren; and her brother, Gaetano Albanese.
A memorial service will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. January 7, 2026, at Manchester Memorial Funeral Home, 28 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting. A celebration of life will follow at the Beachwood Community Center.
