Fua Sooaemalelagi

After a life defined by faith and devotion, Fua Leiataua Sooaemalelagi (Pemika) entered into eternal rest with the presence of her savior on April 24, 2026. Fua was born on August 18, 1943 in Lepuia’i Manono, Western Samoa to her loving parents Neti and Tautinei Leiataua. She was raised in Nu’uuli, American Samoa by her cousin Lorrine and Smith Ho Ching. Later Fua graduated from Mapusaga High School in 1961.

In seeking a better life, Fua moved to America in 1967 with her Aunty Peka to help care for her family. Shortly after her arrival, she met the love of her life Muaulu Faofua Sooaemalelagi they were married in Las Vegas October 14, 1967 and were later sealed for time and all eternity in the Los Angeles Temple on May 22, 1971. Following their sealing, the couple moved to Riverdale, Utah where they established their home. Together they raised their children— Ellis, Leonard, Vincent, Miliama, Hughes Sooaemalelagi. In their twilight years, they opened their hearts and home to adopt three of their grandchildren Lorrine, Aivalu, and Vincent Sooaemalelagi.

Fua’s life was a testament to her deep faith and boundless love for others. She found great joy in feeding others and welcoming friends, and strangers alike with a generous spirit. While she worked hard to provide for her family, her true passion was found in the simple vibrant joys of life.

A true “Material Girl,” Fua delighted in the beauty of the world; she took great pride in her appearance from her perfectly done hair and nails to the “bling” that matched her sparkling personality. She loved to spend her weekends dancing, dressed in a new outfit and was never afraid to speak her mind with a voice that was clear as it was kind. She lived loudly, and loved fiercely. She was truly one of a kind, a rare soul who left a trail of light and an unforgettableness with everyone she met.

Fua is survived by her children Ellis, Leonard, Vincent (Jennifer), Miliama, and Hughes; grandchildren Tysan (Valanna), Joshua (Alysha), Malia (Scott), Kayla, Justin (Daron), Jessica (Nick), Lorrine, Aivalu, and Vincent; 17 great grandchildren; and siblings Aivalu, Pule, Pelise, Petesa, Sipele, Pati, Lili. She leaves behind a vast and loving family who will carry her spirit forward, and an influence that will be felt for generations through the stories they tell and the faith she instilled in each of them.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 2, 2026 at the Lindquist Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. Friends may visit with the family on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 6 until 8 PM at the Mortuary, and 9:30 to 10:30 prior to services. Interment, Washington Heights Memorial Park.