Alama Sevaaetasi Sao

It is with boundless love and grieving hearts that the Sao family announce the passing of Alama Sevaaetasi Sao, 78. He was called home to be with The Lord on December 26, 2024, after giving his family one more Christmas surrounded by his children and their families. Alama is preceded in death by his father Sao Sevaaetasi, mother Falesoa Alama; sister, Pamata (Falaniko Fautanu); and brother, Iakopo Sevaaetasi. He is succeeded by his wife Taavale Togiai Sao of 46 years and their 4 children: daughter Repeka Alama Avegalio (Fata Avegalio), and their children, son Fata and daughter Fa’aolaina; son Alama Sevaaetasi Sao Jr; son Atapana Sevaaetasi Sao (Sharmel Rowley Sao), and their daughter Vaiala; daughter Fa’afetai Repeka Afisivalu (Sega Afisivalu), and their children, son Alama, daughter Ta’avale, and son Salani; as well as two additional children: Douglas Mulipola and family, and Kerisimasi Poloa (the late Kiki), and family. He is also survived by his siblings: brother Tavita Sevaaetasi (Fetu), and family; sister-in-law Loretta Sevaaetasi and family; brother Poge Fasia (Ana), and family; sister Tina Sevaaetasi; brother Ioane Sevaaetasi (Ali’itasi), and family; brother Pula Leasiolagi (Tiana), and family; brother Fasia Fuimaono (Maryann), and family; and, sister Kuata Tinoga (Luai), and family.

Alama was a proud man of faith and “the son of a faifeau” (pastor) as he would often retell lovingly. If you know the stereotypes of preachers kids..haha. His parents were missionaries to Papua New Guinea before his father became a pastor under the LMS Church. Alama proudly served in the United States Army for 20 years and continued to work long after his military retirement. His energy was unmatched all the way until his final days. Alama served as a deacon at the Malamalama Fou LMS Church in Seaside, CA for several years. After moving to Chandler, AZ in 2020, Alama and his wife joined Desert Gateway Baptist Church. His commitment was balanced with purpose and a sense of urgency always rooted in love. Above all of his earthbound duties was his commitment and love for his wife of 46 years. She was his heart. Her hand was the last he held when he transitioned to Heaven.

This loss and Alama’s impact are felt far beyond his wife, children, and their families. His dedication extended across oceans, uniting families near and far. He was a bridge between two worlds. A trailblazer who led from the front and never asked of others what he wasn’t willing to do himself. He helped to preserve and conserve land and culture for future generations. “A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children.” KJV Proverbs 13:22.

Alama’s legacy of faith, family, and leadership continues to inspire his descendants and those who knew him. “Legacy is planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.” Rest in peace, beloved husband, Dad, Papa, Uncle.

Relatives and friends are invited to an evening visitation on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 5-8:00 p.m. held at Valley of the Sun Mortuary, 10940 E Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248. A Celebration of Life service will be held the following day, Friday, January 17, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Valley of the Sun Mortuary. Following the service, Alama will be laid to rest with full military honors in Valley of the Sun Cemetery.