A media icon of American Samoa, Malotoa Malietau Samoa Rosemary Coffin-Kent, has passed away.
Rosemary as she was popularly known, was a household name in the territory through her illustrious radio and television career.
Known for her mastery of Samoan and English, her probing interviews and animated commentaries of fautasi races on KVZK-TV, Rosemary began in broadcasting while a teenager. She was a volunteer news anchor on KVZK-TV. Later after she returned from studying in New Zealand she hosted a long running Samoan entertainment show on TV called, “Faafiafiaga”.
Rosemary was News Director of Radio Samoa/WVUIV for five years and was also an announcer. At the time the radio was the only medium that provided updated weather reports and during hurricanes she worked countless hours disseminating information and keeping listeners calm. She would always sign off on radio with, “Hug your children, hug each other and Keep Smiling American Samoa, no matter what.”
Rosemary later joined the KVZK-TV news team and also produced documentaries and features of local personalities, legends and culture. She was also a contributor for CNN. After leaving American Samoa, Rosemary lived in Hawaii, where she worked for a newspaper distribution agency and also appeared on the television program Olelo. She later moved to the mainland to be close to her children.
Rosemary was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and was active with the Relief Society.
She was a gifted story teller that engaged audiences of all ages. Her larger than life personality added to her popularity.
We farewell a great woman, one who has left her mark in local media and the territory as a whole. Our condolences to her children, grandchildren and family.
Her family released the following statement:
“With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Malotoa Malietau Samoa Rosemary Caroline Coffin-Kent, born November 21, 1952, announces her peaceful passing Tuesday afternoon in Missouri.
“Rosemary Coffin-Kent was more than a mother, grandmother, and friend—she was a voice, a presence, and a pillar in every community she touched.
“Known widely for her work with WVUV radio and KVZK television in, Rosemary began her journey in journalism at an exceptionally young age in 1967. Even then, it was clear she possessed a rare gift—the ability to inform, connect, and uplift through storytelling. Her voice carried truth, warmth, and authority, earning her deep respect across the islands and beyond.
“A proud graduate of Mapusaga High School—now known as American Samoa Community College—Rosemary remained deeply rooted in her Samoan heritage and culture throughout her life. She carried her identity with pride, grace, and strength, honoring her family, her ancestors, and her community in all that she did.
“Her life was also defined by unwavering faith. As a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Rosemary exemplified what it means to live a life of service, humility, and compassion. She was truly the “salt of the earth”—steady, loving, and quietly impactful in ways that will continue to ripple through generations.
“Over the years, her journey took her from American Samoa to Hawaii, Tennessee, and Washington, D.C., before she ultimately settled in Missouri. There, she embraced her most cherished role—being surrounded by family. Her later years were filled with joy as she spent time with her children and grandchildren, sharing stories, wisdom, and love. Even in retirement, her passion for media never faded, as she continued to make appearances on radio and television programs.
“Rosemary is survived by her seven children and fourteen grandchildren, each of whom carries forward her strength, values, and enduring spirit.
“Her legacy is one of voice and vision, faith and family, culture and connection. She leaves behind not just memories, but a standard—of excellence, of kindness, and of living with purpose.
“The family invites all who knew her, were inspired by her, or were touched by her work to honor her life by sharing stories, lifting others, and holding close the values she lived every day.
“She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”
