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Milton Tuia Punausuia, 60, passed away on July 17, 2023 in Lakeland, Florida. He was born in Fontana, California on January 5, 1963 to parents, Tunoa and Cleo Ann Punausuia. Milton graduated from Lincoln High School in Tallahassee, Florida and later joined the United States Air Force. Following his service, he worked for Publix Super Markets for 37 years. Milton married the love of his life, Kimberly Dawn Hancock, on April 30, 1994 in Tallahassee, Florida. Throughout his life, he was a mentor to many – from juvenile detention counselor to professional mentorship through Publix, Milton loved to help people grow into their greatest potential. Additionally, Milton served in different roles at church. He is remembered for his devotion to his family and his deep affection for his wife. He will also be remembered for his love of baking, his loud, off-pitch singing, uncoordinated dance moves, and his love for his country. Milton is preceded in death by his father, Tunoa Punausuia; his grandparents, Paul and Barbara McGauley; and, his sister, Ana Punausuia Spence. Milton is survived by his wife, Kimberly Punausuia; his four children, Branden Punausuia, Ashley Noel (Ethan), Joshua Punausuia (Brooke), and Elena Punausuia; his eight siblings, Nancy Adkins, Lisa Punausuia, Tala Melendez (Enrique), Lyle Punausuia, William Punausuia (Shonna), Michael Punausuia (Cristina), Steven Punausuia (Kathy), and Vaiola Punausuia; his mother, Cleo Punausuia; his three grandchildren, Rhett Punausuia, Paisley Punausuia, and Declan Noel, as well as many nieces and nephews. The family will be receiving guests for a visitation at Bevis Funeral Home on Sunday, July 30, 2023 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. A service will be held at Bevis Funeral Home on Monday, July 31, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. with a private committal and honors ceremony at Tallahassee National Cemetery to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to One More Child, the Cancer Research Institute, or the American Legion. Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

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Milton Tuia Punausuia

January 5, 1963 - July 17, 2023