The validation of Jadwiga Szubartowicz of Poland

The Gerontology Research Group is delighted to announce the official validation of Mrs. Jadwiga Szubartowicz of Poland.

Born in Lublin, Russian Empire (now Lublin, Lublin Voivodeship, Poland), Jadwiga Szubartowicz’s journey through life was a testament to strength, resilience, and a profound connection to history.

As a child, she witnessed the tumultuous 1917 Russian Revolution in Sankt Petersburg, an experience marked by loss as her father succumbed during those turbulent times. Despite the challenges, Jadwiga and her family returned to Poland, where she eventually graduated from the Ursuline sisters’ gymnasium and pursued pedagogical studies alongside her sister. In adulthood, she worked as an accountant, navigating the complexities of life with grace.

World War II tested her once again, and during those dark days in Lublin, she played a role in saving the renowned Jan Matejko painting “Battle of Grunwald” from Nazi occupants. The war brought both tragedy and love into her life – her brother fell victim to the Nazis in Buchenwald concentration camp, while after the war, Jadwiga married Antoni Szubartowicz, a veteran of the Battle of Monte Cassino. Their enduring love lasted for an incredible 50 years, despite not having children of their own.

Jadwiga Szubartowicz’s life story is a tapestry of historical significance, personal loss, and unwavering resilience. On her 110th birthday, she reflected on the transformation of Lublin, her birthplace, and offered a profound message to the world: “The life of a man on the Earth is neither easy nor light. One needs to educate, expand horizons and improve constantly. And, with the help of God, search for good, beauty, and truth. Break and vanquish the evil. That has always been my recipe for life.”

Acknowledged for her remarkable life, she received the title of Honorary Citizen of Lublin and, on her 111th birthday, was celebrated as one of the few individuals in modern Polish history to surpass such a long lifespan.

Jadwiga Szubartowicz’s passing on 20 July 2017 marked the end of an era. Her legacy of wisdom, resilience, and a commitment to goodness lives on. May she rest in peace.

The age of Jadwiga Szubartowicz was verified by Waclaw Jan Kroczek, GRG Correspondent for Poland and Nordic Countries, and Janina Cudna, with the significant help and support from Mrs. Szubartowicz’s family, and validated by the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) as of Jan. 26, 2016.