A Samoan father of four has been farewelled by family in both Samoa and Utah following his death in a construction accident in Wyoming on 22 December 2025.
Molisa “Morris” Fesolai, originally from Vaitoloa in Apia, had been working on a construction site when a beam reportedly fell and struck his chest, causing catastrophic internal injuries. Despite attempts to save him, he died from his injuries. He had been living in Utah with his wife and children at the time of his passing.
Molisa was born in Apia, Samoa, to his parents Moana and Sosaia Fesolai, and was the fourth of nine children. He grew up in a close family environment surrounded by grandparents, aunties, uncles, and cousins, and maintained strong ties to his Samoan roots throughout his life.
He attended Church College Pesega (CCWS) and later studied industrial refrigeration at Samoa Polytechnic before moving to the United States in 2012, where he later met and married his wife, Alison.
Molisa is remembered as a devoted husband and father. He leaves behind his wife Alison, his daughters Shavayonne, Barbara, and BrynnRose, and his son Henry, who resides in Samoa. Family members described him as the primary breadwinner of the household, a loving and playful father, and someone who worked tirelessly for the wellbeing of his children.
He had a passion for sports, especially rugby, soccer, volleyball, and boxing. He was known among friends and relatives for his humour, warmth, cooking, kindness, and ability to make others feel welcome as family.
Molisa is also survived by his parents Moana and Sosaia Fesolai, and his siblings Burton (Jean), Peteri (Jon), Ezra (Farrah), Deon (Liza), Aerial, Liki (Nia), Craig, and Lynice.
A memorial service for his family and relatives in Samoa was held at Vaitoloa Chapel on 2 January 2026, where loved ones gathered to honour his life and reflect on cherished memories.
Funeral services and burial were held in Utah, where his wife and children reside, with family describing the loss as deeply painful and unexpected, especially so close to Christmas.
Molisa “Morris” Fesolai is remembered by his family as a hardworking son, a loyal brother, a loving husband, and a father whose greatest joy was his children.
A fundraising page has been created to support Alison and the children following Molisa’s passing: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-alison-and-her-daughters-after-tragic-loss
