Star Alameda, wife of Hawaii County mayoral candidate Kimo Alameda and a career educator, died Friday. She was 54.
According to Kimo Alameda’s Facebook page, Star Alameda was found unresponsive Friday morning.
“She was my strongest supporter and advisor. Our rock and backbone of the family. Our hearts are all super sore,” Alameda said on Facebook.
“Valiant efforts by family and Hawaii County EMS personnel were unable to revive her. Dr. Kimo would like to thank our Hawaii County EMS and the countless friends and family who have reached out to share their aloha,” the page said. “The Alameda ‘Ohana is in deep mourning and asks for continued prayers as they mourn her loss.”
The Alamedas have seven children and a grandchild. According to Star Alameda’s Facebook page, she was a reading specialist at E. B. deSilva Elementary School, was formerly a special education teacher at Moanalua Intermediate School in Honolulu, studied business education at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and graduated from Hilo High School.
The outpouring of condolences on social media was immediate.
“My deepest condolences to Kimo and ohana on your sudden loss our prayers are with you during this difficult time,” said former Hawaii County Prosecutor Jay Kimura.
“May the Lord surround you, Kimo (and) the rest of your ‘ohana with his love as you go through this very painful (and) difficult time,” posted kumu hula Puanani Crumb.
“So sorry for your loss Kimo. We had immense respect for Star,” posted businessman and farmer Richard Ha. “June and I would like to offer You and your Ohana our deepest sympathy!”
“There are no words to convey that adequately express my shock, condolences and prayers for your family. I am so sorry to hear the news,” wrote Bobby Jean Leithead Todd, retired longtime public servant.
“Sending love and prayers to all of you,” said Pomai Bartolome, executive assistant to and campaign chairman for Mayor Mitch Roth, the incumbent Kimo Alameda is challenging in this year’s election. Also having filed papers for the mayor’s race are Breeani Kobayashi and Jr. Tupa‘i.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Email John Burnett at jburnett@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
