Tala Pele Bailey

Tala Bailey (born Talaitupu Pele) passed peacefully on February 4, 2026 at the age of 63. She was born July 30, 1962 on the Pacific island of Samoa – the second of nine children to Tusitina and Vaovai Pele. She grew up in Samoa surrounded by not only her parents and 8 siblings; but also cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents. Family and church were foundational pillars in Tala’s life – both then and now. Tala made her way to America on a green card and graduated from Torrance High School in California before returning to Samoa. At the age of 26 she applied for US citizenship. Six months later, having met the provisions of US naturalization laws, Tala took the oath of allegiance and was sworn in as a citizen of the United States of America. She viewed this life-changing event, which happened on August 19, 1999 as monumental. Tala worked as a medical assistant before taking a job with Toyota. For 10 years, she worked on an assembly line producing the Corolla model automobile. That job ended when the company moved production from California to Mexico. Tala was working as a security guard in California when she met Richard Bailey. They married in January 2007 and made a new home in Owasso, Oklahoma. Tala’s son, TeeJay Aiono, was enrolled into the 6th grade and Tala landed a job with Owasso Public Schools. She served as custodian for Owasso High School from May 2007 until her untimely death. She and Richard enjoyed 8 years of marriage before his passing in April 2015. They laughed a lot; these were precious, wonderful years for both of them. Tala loved making a joyful noise unto the Lord and regularly attended church – most often at Church on the Move, Tulsa. She loved people and family gatherings. She especially enjoyed the good food and playing games including canasta and Mexican train dominoes. There was no way to beat her to the kitchen sink when it came time to clean up. She could often be overheard speaking Samoan over the phone to various relatives and friends. She enjoyed Samoan dance and her Bible Study group in California. She will be remembered for her heart of gold and generous, caring spirit. We have no doubt that she is “present with the Lord.” Loving family members include Tala’s son, TeeJay Aiono; daughter-in-law, Lauren Aiono and 21-month-old grandson, Milo. Aiono grandchild #2 is due in August. Tala is also loved by step daughters, Ginger Bailey Walker and Tomi Bailey O’Connor (husband Johno); Brother-in-law, Leo Bailey (wife Kelly) and sisters-in-law, Karen Bailey Hayhurst (Steve) and Susan Bailey Schmook (Alan). Tala’s 7 surviving siblings live in Samoa – sister Me` Pele and brothers Moe, Vaai, Tuuina, Tita`e, Pagea, and Farani Pele. There are numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. Here in the states are cousins Nei Autagavaia, and also Lotomaulalo, Filemu and Luatapu Bradford. Tala is preceded in death by husband, Richard Bailey; sister, Maria Pele and also her parents and grandparents. Tala’s memorial service will be held in Owasso at Mowery Funeral Service Chapel at 3:30 PM on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

Tala Pele Bailey

July 30, 1962 - February 4, 2026