Flags in American Samoa are at half-staff for the next two days to honour former senator, Galea'i Moaali'itele Tu'ufuli, who died last month at hospital in California.
Galeai Moaaliitele Tuufuli Photo: RNZI/Monica Miller
The body of the paramount chief, 81, was flown into American Samoa last night for his funeral services today.
A state service is being followed by a family service, with Galea'i to be buried tomorrow.
Last month the Governor Lolo Maliga said Galea'i's "good will and generosity of spirit, his commitment and leadership, shall stand as shinning examples for us all to follow."
At the time of his death, Galea'i was serving his second consecutive senate term.
He was regarded as the senior statesman of the Fono, and referred to as the father of both the Senate and House.
Galeai began his political role as an advisor during the Lutali administrations in the 1980s and 1990s.
He then served as a senator for more than a decade.
Galeai's field was law enforcement and he also served several terms as a Commissioner of Public Safety.
