Fesilafai Pita Malae

Tinā was born in the Village of Fagatogo, American Samoa, and was a graduate of Atauloma Missionary School for Girls.

As the beloved wife of the Late Rev. Elder Pita Malae, Tinā embraced and honored her ministry roles as Director of Sunday School and the Women’s Fellowship. For over 40 years, she ministered to and taught Samoan language instruction to children and youth in the Sunday School programs, mentored and counseled teachers, and nurtured generations of families in her church community.

Tinā embodied service and faith in action. She inspired youth leaders to enter into ministry to serve marginalized communities and to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. She was an active leader in the Hawaii Conference of the United Church of Christ, and the Women’s Board of Missions for the Pacific Islands. For many years she exercised and enjoyed the fellowship at the Samoan Senior Wellness Program in Kalihi.

Tinā is preceded in death by her sons Faulalogofie, David Suaese, Abe Utu, Maselusi, and daughter Elizabeth I. She is survived by her last remaining sibling Afoafouvale Lutu, children ~ Peter, Beta, Iakopo, Parry, Emmanuel, Su’e, Elizabeth III, Naomi, Robert & Solouta ~ multiple grandchildren and great grandchildren ~ and a host of spiritual sons and daughters, whose lives were forever changed by her tutelage and witness.

A celebration of Tinā’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 9:00 am public viewing and 10:00 am Church Service at EFKAS Kanana Fou Congregational Christian Church American Samoa - UCC at 94 261 Kunia Rd, Waipahu, HI 96797-5379; with burial to follow at NMCP Punchbowl Cemetery at 1:00pm.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

**In honor of and respect for Tinā's wishes, traditional Samoan protocols of exchange of fine mats will not be observed for her homecoming.**