Nisha Fanefau Vaivai, 62

Nisha Fanefau Vaivai, 62, of Orange Park, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving husband and daughter. She was born on November 6, 1963, in Lauliʻi, American Samoa.

Nisha was raised in the Catholic faith and carried her beliefs with grace throughout her life. In 2005, she moved from San Francisco,

California, to Orange Park, Florida, where she made a warm and welcoming home filled with love, laughter, and faith.

Nisha dedicated her life to caring for her family and creating a nurturing home for all who entered it. Her greatest joy was spending time with her loved ones, and her home was often the gathering place for family dinners, holidays, and celebrations. She had a remarkable way of making everyone feel deeply loved and valued, always ensuring those around her knew how much they meant to her.

Known for her generous heart and exceptional cooking, Nisha loved hosting gatherings that family and friends eagerly anticipated. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her home and into her beautiful garden on her back patio, which she lovingly tended throughout the years.

She is survived by her loving husband, Leonard McDonald; her son, William Chase Williford, and daughter-in-law, Kristy Williford; her daughter, Victoria Rose Crawford, and son-in-law, John Crawford; her brother, Fernandez T. Vaivai; her sisters, Nyla Vaivai, Lenette Vaivai, Pear Iulio, and Merevelesi Aiʻava; her grandchildren, Devin Crawford, Dylan Crawford, and Victoria Stanick; and her great-grandchildren, Livvy Stanick and Camden Stanick.

Nisha will be remembered for her unwavering love, gentle spirit, and the lasting bonds she formed with everyone blessed to know her.

Funeral services will be at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Russell Haven of Rest Chapel, with Patrick Martin officiating. A time of visitation with the family will begin at 2:00pm, before the service.

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, Florida 32043. Family and friends may share their condolences at www.RHRFH.com or by calling 904-284-7720.

John 16:22
“Therefore, you now have sorrow; but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.”

“ia manuia lau malaga,” (farewell on your journey)