Samson Poomaihealani

Samson Poomaihealani, of Papaaloa, Hawaii, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 13, 2026, in Hilo, Hawai`i, at the age of 85. Born on April 15, 1941, in Honolulu, to Ernest and Amy, Samson was the seventh of eight children. He grew up in downtown Honolulu before the family later settled in Papakōlea. From those early years onward, he carried himself with a steady sense of purpose and a deep respect for the people and places that shaped him.

Samson began his career with United Airlines, a professional journey that soon led him into service with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Later in life he became a Grand Lodge Representative in the Transportation Department, earning trust through steadfast work, principled leadership, and a clear devotion to the dignity of working people.

Celebrations of life will be held on Hawai`i Island on Saturday, October 31, from 11 AM to 3 PM at the Hilo Yacht Club, 77 Laehala Street, Hilo, and on O`ahu on Wednesday, November 4, from 4–8 PM at the Ke`ehi Lagoon Memorial, 2685 N. Nimitz Highway, Honolulu.

He is survived by wife, Christine Heath; sons, Scott (Denise) Poomaihealani, Christopher (Holly) Poomaihealani; daughter, Kara Tejada; sister, Dorcas Auwae; 7 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and numerous cousins.