Vagana Telea Falealii

After graduating from Samoana High School, he began his professional journey as an educator. It was during these foundational years that he met the love of his life, Simalu Mapu Faleali'i. The two were united in holy matrimony on March 9, 1966, beginning a partnership of 60 years built on a shared devotion to god and family.

Before answering his true calling to the ministry, Vagana dedicated his life to shaping young minds, teaching at Somoana, Tafuna, Leone, and Manu'a High Schools. However, the call to serve the lord led him to Malua Theological College, where he studied from 1977 to 1980. His leadership was recognized early by his peers, as he was chosen to serve as the president of the class of 1980 before graduating.

Upon graduating he would be ordained as a minister in the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (EFKS). His ministry took him across the islands and the sea, shepherding cogitations in Selesatele, Falealilii, Utumea, and Auasi, as well as serving the faithful in Stockton, California. He later gave 11 years of dedicated service to the village of Tafitoala, Safata.

Though he officially retired in 2010, his heart for the mission remained steadfast. He held the high honor of serving among the distinguished clergy of the church, working alongside with Reverend Asiata and Simoa in the villages of Matu'u and Faganeanea.

In 2014, Vagana moved to Magna, Utah, where he found a spiritual home as a member of the church under Reverend Saitumua and Rosa Tafaoiali'i. There, he was cherished as a spiritual son, remaining a pillar of faith, a humble servant, and a guiding light until his final days

A visitation will be held at Valley View Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 4335 West 4100 South, West Valley City, UT 84120, US, on May 27, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

A visitation will be held at First Congregational Christian Church of Samoa in Utah-DOC, 8574 2700 S, Magna, UT 84044, US, on May 28, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am.

A funeral service will be held at First Congregational Christian Church of Samoa in Utah-DOC, 8574 W Magna Main St, Magna, UT 84044, US, on May 28, 2026, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, with livestream available at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c2605948035591.

A committal service will be held at Valley View Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 4335 W 4100 S, West Valley City, UT 84120, US, on May 28, 2026, from 1:45 pm to 2:45 pm.

Vagana’s final resting place will be Valley View Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 4335 West 4100 South, West Valley City.