Lasela “Stella” Fatu-Selitu

On April 5, 2026, the world lost a truly remarkable soul, as Lasela “Stella” Fatu-Selitu peacefully passed away in her sleep, surrounded by her loving family at Scripps Mercy Hospital. Born on January 3, 1954, in the serene village of Fagasa, American Samoa, Stella's life was a testament to love, resilience, and dedication. Stella was blessed to be the cherished daughter of Manaia Lori Selitu and the late Letepia “Pia” Love. Her loving spirit was nurtured by the wisdom of her grandparents, Loleita and Harold Love, and Finasipi and High Chief Fiamè Lokafi Selitu. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Lasifi’i “John” Fatu, whom she married in 1984 and shared a life of joy and partnership until his passing in 2021. Together, they built a beautiful family and a legacy of love that will endure for generations. Stella's nurturing nature found its calling in her 21-year career as a nurse, where her quick thinking and profound compassion touched countless lives. Her dedication to her profession was matched only by her devotion to her family and her community, where she was known for her loving personality and expansive knowledge of life. She was a devoted mother to her surviving children: sons Logan, Serupi, Lotà, Nifo, and Harold, and daughters Kelio, Malà, and Sipi. She was also the proud and loving grandmother to 47 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, all of whom were the light of her life. Stella was predeceased by her dear sons, Tuipa’o and Rodney Selitu, and her daughter, Nitua Lei Selitu-Roman. Her spirit lives on in her three sisters: Keliofasi, Tulisa, and Matalia. Stella's love for her Samoan roots was evident in her passion for engaging in Samoan activities with her family, a testament to her enduring connection to her heritage. Her home was a gathering place where traditions were celebrated, and her warmth enveloped all who entered. A service to honor Stella’s life will be held on April 26, 2026, at 8:00 AM at St. Joseph, located at 453 Myrtle Street. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be streamed live on YouTube and Facebook, allowing all who loved her to join in celebrating her remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to The Stella Heart Association, a memorial fund established to continue Stella's legacy of care and compassion. Contributions can be made via Venmo. Stella’s radiant spirit will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we celebrate a life well-lived, enriched by love and service, and take solace in the profound impact she made on all who were fortunate to know her. Rest in peace, dear Stella, as you reunite with those who have gone before you, and continue to watch over your family with the same love and care you bestowed upon them in life.