Martha Leona Ah Yee's Obituary
Martha “Mata” Leona (Kekuna) Ah Yee, born on January 13, 1952, in Hilo, Hawaiʻi, passed away in Hilo on April 10, 2026, at the age of 74, surrounded by the love of family and the memories of a life well lived.
Mata is survived by her loving sisters, Rosealind (Noah) Strange of Arizona, Lillian (Larry) Toledo of Hilo, Hawaiʻi, and Sharon Char of Maui, as well as her brother, Benjamin Kekuna of Waikoloa, Hawaiʻi. She is also fondly remembered by her extended family and friends whose lives she touched deeply.
A proud graduate of Hilo High School, Mata went on to earn her Master’s degree in Psychology and a degree in Sociology, reflecting her deep compassion and understanding of others. She dedicated her life to caring for those around her, always offering a listening ear, kind words, and unwavering support.
Mata shared a beautiful marriage with her beloved husband, Sylvester “Onaona” Ah Yee, for 44 years. Together, they built a life rooted in love, loyalty, and partnership. She also held a special place in her heart for her dogs and cats, whom she cherished as her children, giving them endless love and care.
Mata was preceded in death by her husband, Sylvester “Onaona” Ah Yee; her brother, Samuel Kekuna; her sister, Josephine Ah Yee; and her parents, Joseph and Eva Kekuna.
She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her strength, her love for family, her infectious laughter, and the warmth she brought into every life she encountered. Mata’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Funeral arrangements are by Homelani Memorial Mortuary. Services will be announced at a later date.
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