Georgianna Leilani Kalawaia

Georgianna Leilani (Leong) Kalawaia, age 86, of Peyton, Colorado, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at home with her family by her side. She was born on December 7, 1937, in Maui, Hawaii, to the late John and Pauline Leong.

From 1956 to 1958, Georgianna proudly served in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), embracing a life of dedication, service, and compassion. Her time in the WAC sparked her unwavering commitment to caring for others. After her service, she married the love of her life, James “Kimo” Kalawaia, on April 17, 1959, and together they built a home that radiated love, joy, and the beauty of togetherness.

Georgianna was a true matriarch, dedicating her life to her family and opening her heart and home to anyone in need. She especially cared for service members who had no place to call home, welcoming them with open arms and treating them like her own. Her love was a constant force, her kitchen a haven, and her heart a source of boundless generosity.

She is survived by her beloved children, Lisa Green, William (Ingrid) Kalawaia, Donald (Jill) Kalawaia, and Ann Zimmer; her treasured grandchildren, Terri-Lynn (Mike) Miller, Brittany (Kevin) Hunsinger, Khami Zimmer, Kaliph Zimmer, Cody Kalawaia, Trey Kalawaia, Isabella Kalawaia, Zachary Kalawaia, Lincoln Kalawaia, and Lily Kalawaia; and her adoring great-grandchildren, Makayla Miller, Leah Miller, Lucas Miller, Zoey Hunsinger, and Hailey Hunsinger.

Georgianna is now reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, Kimo; her son, James Kalawaia, Jr.; her siblings, John Cummings Leong, Nancy Joan Leong, and Paul Knox Leong; and her parents.

Her legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Georgianna’s life was a testament to the power of love, a life that turned every stranger into family and every challenge into an opportunity to care for others.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with close family and friends in attendance.