Fatafehi Ongoalupe Prescott

A beloved mother, sister, grandmother, friend, and respected community leader, Fatafehi Ongo’alupe Malohifo’ou Prescott—affectionately known as Lupe—passed away peacefully at her home in West Valley City, Utah, on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at the age of 81. Lupe’s life radiated warmth, kindness, and love that touched everyone she met. Born on October 24, 1943, in Neiafu, Vava’u, Tonga, Lupe was the third child of Tonga Poteki Malohifo’ou and ‘Ana Tamutamu Toki Malohifo’ou. She spent her childhood in Neiafu, attending ‘Onevai Primary School before moving to Tongatapu to continue her education at Tonga High School and Liahona High School. In 1963, she embarked on her higher education journey at the Church College of Hawaii (BYU-Hawai’i) and later graduated from Brigham Young University in Provo with a Bachelor’s degree in Education in 1982, followed by a Master’s degree in Communication in 1986. In 1968, Lupe married the late Unga Prescott in Laie, Hawai’i, and together they built a life raising their three wonderful children: George Manu Prescott, Makaloni ‘Unga Prescott, and Elsie Star Prescott Langi. Lupe’s journey led her to San Mateo, California, in 1972, and four years later, she settled in Salt Lake City, Utah. For the next 48 years, Utah became her beloved home. In 1977, she began her meaningful career with the Salt Lake Police Department, dedicating 30 years to public service and retiring in 2007. She was known for her compassionate heart and deep respect for all those she encountered. Lupe’s contributions to the community extended far beyond her professional career. She was one of the longest-standing court and medical interpreters in the Tongan language in the state of Utah, ensuring that countless individuals received the support and understanding they needed during critical moments. Her dedication to service was matched only by her deep love for her family. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she would give anything to see them happy and smiling. Whether it was cheering them on at events, sharing stories that connected them to their roots, or simply being present with her warm embrace, Lupe's greatest joy was being surrounded by her grandchildren, whose lives she enriched with love and care. A tireless advocate and pillar of the Pacific Islander community, Lupe co-founded the National Tongan American Society (NTAS) in 1995. Through NTAS, she championed initiatives to empower and uplift Tongan-Americans and Pacific Islanders, advocating for health, education, cultural preservation, and civic engagement. Lupe’s unwavering commitment to serving others—always with warmth and grace—left a lasting impact on countless lives. Lupe is survived by her children: George Manu Prescott (Sara), Makaloni ‘Unga Prescott (Rachelle), and Elsie Star Prescott Langi (Fahaivalu), as well as her grandchildren: Siosaia Manoa Taimani, Lavinia Malekamu ‘Aholelei (Losepini), Mali’a A. Malala (Ojay), Ellesi Dawn Tai (Halatoa), Olivia J. Wolf (Kaden), Zealin A. Prescott, Kingston T. Prescott, Quinn T. Prescott, Noah Manu Prescott, Sierra Nadine Prescott, Tegan Kymani Prescott, and Ryker Neiafu Prescott. Her great grandchildren: Manutoa T. Malala, Falani O. Malala, and Charlotte Star ‘Aholelei. She also leaves behind her sisters Lakalaka Malohifo'ou Ka'ili (Tevita), Ngaluafe Malohifo'ou Fa, Ivoni Malohifo'ou Nash (Michael), her brother Simione Nau Malohifo'ou (Susi), and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who loved her deeply. Lupe’s heart was wide enough to embrace many, especially Lizzy Brown Polamalu, who became like a daughter to Lupe. This special relationship extended to Lizzy’s daughter, Faith Polamalu Mataitusi, and her husband, Gabriel Mataitusi, whom she loved as her own grandchildren. The presence of their children, Royal L. Mataitusi and Lisi-Leimomi Mataitusi, brought laughter and joy to Lupe’s life. Lupe was preceded in death by her parents, Tonga Poteki Malohifo’ou and ‘Ana Tamutamu Toki Malohifo’ou, as well as her brothers, Kuli Ha’apai Malohifo’ou, Peni Tonga Malohifo’ou and his twin Ratu Malohifo’ou, and Finau Fisi Malohifo’ou. She now rests in eternal peace, reunited with them. Community members are invited to pay their respects to the family on Thursday, November 21,2024 at the Langi Resident 3441 South Hunter Point Circle West Valley City, UT. A public viewing will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM Salt Lake Hunter West Stake Center 2811 South 6400 West. West Valley City, Utah A family viewing will take place on Saturday, November 23, 2024, 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM, followed by the Bishop’s program 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM, with interment at 11:30 AM at Crescent View Cemetery, 11105 S. State St, Sandy, Utah. Lupe’s spirit will forever live in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her in return. Her legacy of warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to her family and community will be

Fatafehi Ongoalupe Prescott

October 24, 1943 - November 16, 2024