Pita Elisara

Mr. Pita Elisara, Jr. passed away on October 16, 2018. He was born on November 16, 1976 in Pago Pago, American Samoa to the late Rev. Elder Pita Elisara II and Mrs. Afioga Tamaalemalo Mauga Oloa-Elisara.

Pita grew up with his family and 7 siblings in Vailoa, American Samoa, and in Fagamalo and Iliili where his parents served as pastors for the Congregational Christian Church in American Samoa (CCCAS). After graduating in 1995 as a scholar athlete from Tafuna High School, he moved to the United States to attend Palomar Community College, California. Shortly thereafter, he received a scholarship to play football for the Indiana University Hoosiers. Later, he was picked up as a free agent for the NFL, and played for numerous teams as an offensive lineman, including the New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, and the Washington Redskins. He also played for the XFL San Francisco Demons and XFL Europe.

Pita met Ms. Ella Sipili in 2002, married on 6 July 2006 and were blessed with 4 children. After the NFL, he worked as a security officer, fork lift operator, and as a corrections officer, while supporting his wife’s military career. Pita also served the Lawton/Fort Sill CCCAS as a deacon and youth leader under the guidance and leadership of his spiritual parents Rev. Tautu Porotesano.

Pita was a loving father and husband. A great friend to all who knew him. He was known to have a big heart of gold, filled with unconditional love. He enjoyed laughing and was the life of the party, who would light up the room with his smile. Pita would stop at nothing to achieve his dreams, and provide for his family. He loved playing the guitar and golfing, but most of all, loved and cherished his family. His joyful spirit and enthusiasm for life will never be forgotten.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Elder Pita II and Afioga P. Elisara. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ella Elisara; 4 children, Matthan Vaiolela’I Simi Sipili, Maugatofa Winnie Elisara, Mereseleisa Aniva Elisara, and Pita Lotutamaiti-Fitiuta Elisara (PJ) Jr; and 7 siblings, Lotutamaiti Elisara, Faauaa Kataferu Pita Elisara, Vaimanu Elisara Pita Elisara, Maseluse Luteru Elisara, Leata Lemalu Elisaia, Etemani Pita Elisara, and Winnie Elisara.

“LIVE FOR THE LORD…DIE FOR THE LORD.” -Romans 14:8