Matalena Manutai, age 92, of Fortson, GA, passed away on June 16, 2026. Matalena was born on August 23, 1933, in Vaiusu, Western Samoa. A visitation will be held on Saturday June, 27, 2026 at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, from 10:00 Am until 10:50 AM; The funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM.
Matalena married the love of her life, Iakopo Saipele Manutai in Western Samoa; They were married for 50 years. The Manutai family moved from Western Samoa to Hawaii February 8,1969. Matalena worked for and retired from Dole Pineapple where she worked in the Cannery.
From the center of her home and family life, Matalena was known as a steady presence—someone others could rely on, and often did. She gave of herself willingly and lovingly, especially in moments when support was most needed, and she found deep joy in celebrating and spending time with those she loved. Her care was practical and constant, expressed through devotion, attention, and an enduring readiness to show up for her family.
Matalena’s generosity extended beyond her own household. With a charitable spirit and a sincere desire to serve, she was drawn to helping the less fortunate, offering kindness in ways both quiet and meaningful.
She also cherished the simple beauty of the world around her. She loved birds and butterflies, and she enjoyed gardening—taking pleasure in the life and color it brought. She was skilled with her hands and patient in her work, finding comfort and purpose in sewing and in the familiar rhythms of daily making and mending.
To many, one of the clearest expressions of her warmth was found in her cooking. Matalena loved preparing meals and feeding any and everyone she could, welcoming others with food that spoke of care, abundance, and belonging.
She enjoyed traveling, and she carried with her a fondness for what brought lightness and comfort—her favorite song, “You are my Sunshine,” and her favorite color, purple.
Matalena Manutai will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude—for the love she gave, the steadiness she offered, and the generous life she lived.
Survived by sons, John, Sio (Elnora), Luamata (Karen), Arona (Kristi); daughters, Peaoe Adkinson (Robert), Pasefika Torres (Luis), Ane Love (Willard) and Vaivasa Escorzon (Tommy); brother Amby Toia Perez. She is also survived by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren.
