Sione 'Asulusi Vailea

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Sione ‘Asulusi Vailea, who departed this life surrounded by his loving family.

Born on April 28, 1941, in ‘Uiha, Ha’apai, Tonga, to ‘Ilaise Halahake Teali’i Fe’ao of ‘Uiha and Paula Vailea Hakalo Vailea of Hunga, Vava’u, ‘Asulusi was the second youngest of nine siblings. From his early years on the island of ‘Uiha, he grew into a man of faith, wisdom, and deep humility.

His educational journey began when a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Pesalili Halai, invited him to attend Liahona High School. This pivotal moment opened new doors, and more importantly, led him to meet the love of his life, Piuela Tokoma’ata Pole’o of Vaini and his conversion as a member of the LDS church. ‘Asulusi and Piuela were married on July 13, 1967, in Nuku’alofa, Tonga and later sealed for time and eternity in the New Zealand Temple in 1974.

Together, Sione and Piuela pursued higher education at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, where he earned his bachelor's degree in Industrial Arts. After completing his studies, they returned to Tonga to serve the community, both as educators at Liahona High School. Sione later became the Physical Plant Facility Director at the school, dedicating many years to its growth and development.

In his later years, Sione and his eternal companion moved to Utah to be near their children and grandchildren. He was a devoted family man whose faith, love, and enduring legacy will be remembered always.

Sione ‘Asulusi Vailea is survived by his loving wife, Piuela, and their cherished children and families: Sisilia Vailea Talia’uli (late Toni), Mo’unga Vailea Pututau (Pupunga Mataliki), the late Fe’ofa’aki Paongo (Lavinia), Mele Pole’o Vea (Tevita), Haunani Paongo Tuita (Petueli), ‘Ana Vehekite Talanoa (Sione), Sioeli Pole’o Vailea (Penina), Sonatane Pole’o Vailea, and Loisi Pole’o Vailea Niutupuivaha (Feke), as well as many treasured grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His legacy of service, education, faith, and love lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant..." – Matthew 25:21

Funeral Services and Burial are under the compassionate care of Redwood Memorial Mortuary.

Viewing will be held Tuesday May 6th, 2025 at Memorial's Redwood Mortuary: 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah from 9:00 am to 11:00 am followed by the Bishop’s funeral service at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at the same location.