Janina Szul

Ledyard - With profound sadness and enduring love, we share the passing of Janina (1937–2025), who left this world peacefully Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in Ledyard, at the age of 88.

Born and raised in Poland, Janina was a woman of remarkable strength, intelligence, elegance and grace. From a young age, she displayed a sharp mind for numbers and business, and a zest for life that was evident in her love of good baking recipes, dancing and her fearless scaling of the tallest trees in search of the best fruit at the top. Her deep faith was the cornerstone of her life - she was a devout Catholic whose quiet devotion shaped her values and her family.

Janina's greatest calling came with motherhood. From the moment she welcomed her first child, her heart and energy were devoted entirely to her children. After the birth of her second child, she left her position as a store manager to be fully present at home, and to a few years later, welcome her third child. For Janina, "being home" meant building something extraordinary - she started a farm and garden that became both a livelihood and a classroom. She raised every animal imaginable and cultivated a bounty of fruits and vegetables, ensuring her family was nourished in every sense of the word. She made sure her kids succeeded in school, which often meant she would spend many long nights up supporting them however she could, making sure homework was done and done perfectly.

She taught her children the rhythms of nature, the importance of hard work, and the value of never letting anything go to waste. Through her example, they learned about the circle of life, the dignity of labor, and the beauty of striving for excellence. Janina was a perfectionist, and she lovingly instilled that same drive in her children.

Janina is survived by her children; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren who carry forward her legacy of love. Her memory will live on in the gardens of their hearts she cared for most tenderly, the lessons she taught, and the lives she shaped.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, at St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church, located at 69 Groton Long Point Road, Groton. Following the Mass, Janina will be laid to rest at the St. Michael Cemetery located on Stillman Avenue Extension in Pawcatuck. There are no calling hours. The Mystic Funeral Home is assisting with her arrangements.