First Lady
p. 91 · Read in the full issue
Death of W. Samoa’s First Lady Mrs. Faamusami Mataafa Faumuina
From Our Own Correspondent APIA, September 8.
ALL Samoa was saddened by the sudden death of Mrs. Faamusami Mataafa Faumuina on August 27 from a heart attack. She was 68. With the passing of this outstanding woman one of the few remaining links with past Samoan history has disappeared. She was the last repre sentative of the older generation of the paramount royal families of Samoa—the Malietoa and Mataafa families.
In a special commemorative broadcast over Apia Broadcasting Station 2AP, on the day after her death, the Rev. P.
Kightley, of the London Missionary Society spoke of her life and personality.
He said that it had been clear for some time that Faamusami had been of great help during the establishing of the new Government in Samoa, when her interest in the various activities and organisations for the women of Samoa never diminished.
Her quiet influence and wise leadership would be sorely missed.
For those acquainted with the recent history of Samoa, there will be no need to emphasise the important part Faamusami has played. As well, she was a charming hostess and many European residents of the Territory will mourn the passing of a real friend.
Faamusami was educated in a Pastor’s school and this led her to Papauta School for girls at Apia. There she spent several years before she went to Fiji for a time to friends of her family.
She was a direct descendant of the Malietoa who received John Williams in 1830. This was Malietoa Vaiinupo (Tavita). His son was Malietoa Moli, and his son was Malietoa Laupepa, who was the father of Malietoa Tanumafili (Mua mua) and of Faamusami. She married Faumuina Mataafa Fiame and there are two children of that marriage, the present Mataafa and a daughter, Salamasina.
The funeral service was held in her house at Lepea and the burial service took place in the adjacent burial grounds of the family. A large and representative gathering of Europeans and Samoans at tended.
A recent photograph of Mrs. Faamusami Mataafa Faumuina.