[3] Following Tuia's death in 2010, the longest-serving member of the Fono is currently House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale.
[1][4] At the time of his election to the House, Tuia's matai name, meaning family or chiefly title, was Muagututi’a.
[4] His election as Speaker surprised many observers, as Tuia, a political newcomer and first-term representative, knew few people outside Tualauta County.
[2] He chose not to seek re-election in 1992 to pursue a successful campaign for the American Samoan Senate.
Dignitaries in attendance included Governor Togiola Tulafono, House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale, Senate President Gaoteote Tofau Palaie, Chief Justice Michael Kruse, as well as traditional American Samoan leaders.
[4] Tuia's funeral was held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in his home village of Pavaiai.