HONOLULU (Island News)—A community is bidding a beloved kumu hula aloha. Leolani Pratt-Hao, also known as Aunty Leifi, from Hawaii Kai, died Monday in Waikoloa. Pratt-Hao was known for opening her home to hundreds of keiki and teaching them hula, the Hawaiian language, ukulele lessons, and life skills.
A well known kumu hula, Leolani Pratt, has passed away in Waikoloa on Monday.
Described as a pillar in her community, Pratt-Hao's tenure as the Hawaiian teacher at Koko Head and Hahaione Schools spanned decades, a testament to the respect and admiration she earned. Her unique style, with an armful of bracelets and signature plumeria flowers in her hair, is a fond memory for family, friends, students of all ages, and communities across the islands.
"She was a beautiful person inside and out. She was Ms. Aloha in Hawaii Kai, but most importantly, she was "our" Aunt Leolani at Koko Head School. She was a fixture at our school, gracefully walking up the ramp to the many classrooms, patiently waiting for her "Aloha Kakahiaka" from her haumana before she entered the classroom," wrote one Facebook user, offering condolences to the Pratt-Hao family.
Pratt Ohana
While Pratt-Hao birthed five children, she left behind dozens of hanai (adopted) children. She blessed her hanai children by naming them with Hawaiian names, blessing them in their marriages, child dedications, and more. For her son, John-Vernal, she was the "queen of our world," saying, "She was a dignified and gracious lady who carried herself 24/7 as so, at the same time, she could joke around and debase herself without care. She was funny, loving, stern, strict and forgiving."
Pratt Ohana
As the news spread of her death, an outpouring of love and aloha began to spread on social media:
"Such a blessing and wonderful woman. I'm so grateful for her inclusive love and prayers always. Her spirit lives on in all her children and mo'opuna. I know heaven is celebrating your arrival, Leify," said in a post.
"She was the kindest, warmest, most loving lady I ever knew. She still remembered me when I saw her years later around Hawaii Kai."
"Miss her dearly, the scent of her pua Melia in her hair and her 'Pehea 'oe' and oh, those wonderful hugs."
"She was also a great storyteller. I will always remember her radiant smile," says another Facebook user.
Leifi-Leolani Keonaona 'O Ku'upio Pratt-Hao has five children, a Puna (grandmother) to 21 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Services are pending.
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