In brief
Dr. Cerina Fairfax, a dedicated dentist and mother, was fatally shot by her estranged husband in a tragic incident in Annandale, Virginia. The community mourns her loss, reflecting on her commitment to family and practice while dealing with the aftermath of their tumultuous divorce.
Patients and colleagues are remembering Dr. Cerina Fairfax as a devoted mother, a caring dentist, and the central figure of her family after police reported that she was killed by her estranged husband, former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax.
Police found both dead in their home in Annandale, Virginia, early Thursday. Authorities believe Justin Fairfax fatally shot his wife and then killed himself amid an ongoing divorce in which he was ordered by a judge to vacate the premises.
Cerina Fairfax, 49, was known for running a successful family dentistry practice in Fairfax and adored traveling, practicing yoga, and spending quality time with her family.
Virginia Rep. Jennifer McClellan highlighted that Cerina cherished her two teenage children the most, calling her a loving and dedicated mother.
Friends described her as quiet and caring, with her work as a dentist seen as an extension of her compassion and service to others. Cerina was recognized as an Outstanding Graduate by the Virginia Commonwealth School of Dentistry in 2015. Dr. Jeffrey Johnson, the interim dean, stated her loss is deeply felt in the dental community.
Community leaders lauded her contributions, noting her commitment and willingness to help those in need through philanthropic work. Ryan Dunn, CEO of the Virginia Dental Association, emphasized the impactful legacy she leaves behind.
The couple met as undergraduates at Duke University and were married in 2006. Justin Fairfax’s political rise was marred by allegations of past sexual misconduct, which ultimately led to him not securing a governor position.
Court records indicated that Cerina and Justin had been living separately for nearly two years, though they were still cohabitating with their children. The judge overseeing their divorce acknowledged the high tensions within the home, mandating Justin’s move by the end of the month.
