Afu Samuela Fiefia

Afu Samuela Fiefia's physical and emotional strength, brilliant smile, and profound faith defined his earthly presence. Afu passed away peacefully at his family home in Farmington, Utah in the early morning hours of February 24, 2026, surrounded by many loved ones. He was nineteen years old.

Afu was born August 28, 2006, the third child in a large and loving family. As a young boy, Afu was as mischievous and energetic as they come, known for his long dreadlocks and unruly personality. His parents, Tevita and Celestia, are both athletes, and Afu showed an early interest in sports, especially football. His parents learned that if they immersed him in sports and physical activities of all kinds, he would be fulfilled.

As the eldest son, Afu carried a heavy load of responsibility and trust. He would grow to develop unique relationships with each of his siblings: Skyla, Mele, Kava, Ezra, Ivi, and his princess, Fane. They would describe him as their best friend and secret-keeper, coach and motivator, protector and safe place. Afu had a soulful singing voice and loved to dance. Dropping an impromptu harmony with his siblings or dancing on TikTok, as well as weight lifting sessions with his family, were favorite things in daily life. He also traveled the world, from Tokyo to Tonga, Greece to Mexico, and a favorite birthday trip to Dubai with his parents and brother. He especially loved spending Christmases in the Dominican Republic with his Fiefia family.

At fourteen, the trajectory of Afu's life changed when he felt a pain in his calf and was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer. He met the diagnosis with determination and an understanding that God had a mission for him: to be an example of self-discipline, generosity, and faith in the face of fear.In the midst of his four-and-a-half year battle with cancer, Afu was able to play high school football at an impressive level. He distinguished himself, both on the field for the Farmington Phoenix, and as a teammate and friend. He had a special bond with his younger brother and teammate, Kava.

Afu and his family chose to share their experience on social media even when it was hard. They found they were not alone in the struggle, however lonely it might have felt at times. They met many other families who were enduring their own battles with pediatric cancer. They also received encouragement from other athletes and coaches, faith leaders, and a worldwide community of friends who #United4Afu.

As did Jesus, Afu "increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man" (Luke 2:52). His humility and desire to follow the Savior's example were essential aspects of his nature. As his understanding of his nature and mission grew, so did his ability to influence so many others for good. At the hardest moments in his life, Afu chose to lift others, whether that meant taking a walk with a child with cancer when he himself was nearly too sick to walk, or comforting his siblings when he had received devastating news of a relapse. He drew abundance to him through the beauty of his open heart.

In the last year of his life, Afu graduated from high school and received his temple endowment. As many of his close friends left to serve missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, a second relapse led Afu to realize that his own mission would not be the one he had long hoped for. He once again applied himself to understanding God's plan for him. As it became clear that his mortal life was coming to an end, he continued to look forward with an eye of faith. In the final weeks of his life, as he spent time with friends, family, and community, and even as the pain became more intense, the beauty of the Spirit that accompanied him was overwhelming.

We were blessed to have Afu with us in this life as long as we did. May we continue to hold his faith and strength in our own hearts. Until we meet again, Brother, Son, Grandson, Nephew, Cousin, Mentor, and Friend.

We invite you to join us for the funeral and Celebration of Life for Afu Samuela Fiefia. 

This will not be a traditional service as we honor Afu's Tongan culture and the way we gather as family and community. We welcome all who attend to be part of the full service and the celebration that follows.

Both Services will be held at the Bountiful Regional Center, 835 N 400 E, North Salt Lake City, Utah 84054

Friday, February 27, 2026 

Celebration of Life and Viewing Program: 6:00-8:00 PM  

Viewing: 8:00-9:00 PM                                                                                                                                                                                               

Saturday, February 28, 2026 

Viewing and Funeral Service Public Viewing: 10:00-10:30 AM 

Family Viewing and Closing of the Casket: 10:30-11:00 AM

Funeral Service: 11:00 AM-12:30 PM

Burial: 2:00 PM                                                                                                                                                                    

Burial will be held at: Redwood Memorial Estates, 6500 S. Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah 84123 

Let us come together not only to mourn, but to uplift, to remember, and to celebrate a life and purpose fulfilled. 

We will be #United4Afu