Obituary

Leasi Derek Maiava, age 37, a native of American Samoa, passed on January 17, 2024 in Goodyear, AZ. He was born on January 13, 1987, to Malefai Maiava and Toetu Samoa Lauina. He graduated from Fagaitua High School in 2005 and then joined the U. S. Army as a 25U (Signal Operations Support Specialist). During his service he met his true love, Shaneka Lewis, where he instantly became her protector. After two years, on January 4, 2010, they married and later conceived one child, Sosefina Alise Maiava, while raising, as his own, Courtney S. Lewis-Davis and LaErica D. Lewis, along with their grandchild, Alayna Jupiter. They will forever hold him in their hearts.
Leasi is known for his big heart. There are many that helped to shape and mold it. Along with his biological parents, he also had Hanai parents. Leasi (deceased) and Dora Mana, Ierome and Lula Lavatai, and Margueritte Lewis.
He is also survived by his siblings, by blood, marriage, chance and circumstance, Rocky Lauina, Tualupetu Lauina, Fred Lauina, Faalaa Lauina, Antonio Williams, Milinda Williams, Moeava Lavatai, Ierome Lavatai, Richard Belcher, Narcissa Belcher, Saeu Mana, Fuarosa Mana, Teleai Lavatai, Tofiga Lavatai, Tofiga Mana, Faaninimo Lavatai, Jason Shoji, Tressamae Shoji and Denise Shoji, as well as a host of aunties, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
His achievements include achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant, Army Commendation Medal (4th award), Army Achievement Medal (3rd award), Meritorious Unit Commendation, Combat Action Badge, Valorous Unit Award (2nd award). Army Good Conduct Medal (2nd Award), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal (with campaign star), Gold Recruiter Badge, as well as numerous other awards.
Leasi Strong, Finished Strong. Funeral service and burial will be conducted in Honolulu, Hawaii under the direction of Grace Mortuary.