Las Vegas, NEVADA — Tauese Isabella Semeatu, was born in Saleimoa, Samoa to Semeatu and Paepaetele Maiava. She was raised by her aunt (her mother’s sister) Aaone and late Rev. Enosa. She moved to the village of Afonotele, American Samoa to care and tend to her parents and grandparents.

She completed her last two years of secondary education at Samoana High School in American Samoa. She attended and graduated from the American Samoa Community College (ASCC), Class of 1980.

She was a teacher for 30 years, with ASDOE. She taught at Matafao Elementary School, Pago Pago Elementary School, Afonotele Elementary School, and Aua Elementary School. She became a pillar in the education system and was recognized as Teacher of The Year many times.

She also dedicated her time and service to her church, community, family, and especially her children. She was a member of the Afonotele Ekalesia Fa’apotopotoga Kerisiano i Amerika Samoa (EFKAS) church. She was a Sunday school teacher and a member of the Mafutaga Tinā. Our mom was also an esteemed and respected member of her village of Afonotele. She was part of the “Aualuma” (Talaleleomalie, Faletua, and Tausi) representing the Matāgaono Family.

After her retirement from the ASDOE, she moved to California to be with her children. She continued with the Lord’s work and became a member of the Long Beach First Congregational Church (EFKS) under the direction of her cousin Rev. Momoli and Mafa Papali’i. She later moved to North Las Vegas, Nevada with her children and became a member of the Ekalesia Fa’apotopotoga Kerisiano North Las Vegas church. She was appointed and served as a Ta’ita’i Tiakono (Lead Deacon) for 5 years.

In her last remaining days despite the obstacles she had faced, she continued to be selfless. She strived to care for children and her grandchildren, including taking orders from lil’ Vai.

Isabella passed away on August 06, 2020 in Las Vegas.