Alma 37:37



Mama Metuli ('Mama') is the only great grandparent Leila, Iosefa, and Viiga have met in this earthly life. This is one of her favorite scriptures. She had this scripture memorized and made it a part of all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren's lives. Even now it is one of the first scriptures that our children are learning.

On Friday March 7, 2015 she passed away. After almost a week of hospitalization her mortal body could no longer sustain her. We got a call Friday morning just as I was getting up to go to work. I returned from work to a very heartbroken husband who was using every bit of strength to keep himself pulled together.

This was the first time someone so dear to his heart had passed away. Luckily Aljay was able to take the weekend to truly mourn and reflect on his memories with Mama. In the days following her passing, we were able to find comfort through family, friends, and sharing stories and experiences of Mama. The Tafiti cousins got together for a much needed to'ona'i and with the help of Lahvjal and Penny, be able to be apart of Mama's earthly farewell despite not being in Samoa.

 Aljay had spent a lot of time with Mama and the reality of her being gone really took a toll on not only him, but his siblings as well. I may not have known Mama for a long time, but in the short time that I've known her, I've learned that...

(1) She likes to act like she doesn't speak English...but she can...and understands 

(2) She loves to take pictures. 

(3) She don't play with her money...that money bag is always right by her side...can't nobody touch it.

(4) She is very giving.

(5) She's got jokes!

(6) She is strong.

(7) Her testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ is solid. 

(8) She will be lifted up at the last day. 

We'll see her again one day. We know without a doubt that God's plan of salvation is real. The sting of death will always leave a bitter feeling, but we find comfort in knowing that families can be together forever. We can find peace and  be healed through Jesus Christ. It's not good bye but see you soon. Until we meet again Mama.


Mama Metuli Alofagia Tafiti Suli
July 9 1930- March 7 2015








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