Christina Szwaja, 99
Christina Szwaja (née Curry), age 99, of Acushnet, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on December 30th, 2025 at her daughter's house in Mattapoisett, surrounded by her loving family. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she touched the lives of all who knew her with her generosity, warmth, and strength. Her unwavering love for family and friends was the cornerstone of her life.
Born in Ennistymon, County Clare, on the west coast of Ireland, Christina was the daughter of Patrick Curry and Sarah (Dillon) Curry. She attended the College of Domestic Economy in Dublin, where she developed skills that would serve her throughout her life. During World War II, seeking opportunity and adventure, she moved to London to work and lived with two of her sisters.
It was in London that Christina met the love of her life, Paul Szwaja, who was serving as a US Naval Courier. After World War II, they married in Dublin, Ireland, and embarked on a new chapter together. The couple moved to the United States, settling in Acushnet Massachusetts in the home lovingly built by Paul. There, they welcomed their four children and built a life filled with love and dedication. Christina later began working as a skilled seamstress at several clothing manufacturers in New Bedford Massachusetts, including Gro-Toges and Elco Dress Company. A talented artisan, she took great pride in her craft, designing and creating beautiful dresses for special occasions, including wedding dresses that brought joy to a few very special brides. Her meticulous attention to detail and artistic eye made her work truly exceptional, and her creations became cherished memories for those who wore them.
Christina was predeceased by her beloved husband Paul, her six brothers, her five sisters, and her son-in-law Wayne Leshyk. She is survived by her four children: Joanne Leshyk of San Juan Capistrano, California; Michael Szwaja and his wife Mary of Cromwell, Connecticut; Kathleen Kvilhaug and her husband Magnar of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts; and Paul Szwaja of New Bedford, Massachusetts; eleven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews, all of whom will cherish her memory and forever hold her in their hearts.
Blessed with good health throughout her life, Christina enjoyed her final years in peace and serenity in Mattapoisett, lovingly cared for by family and friends. She entered into hospice care with grace and dignity, surrounded by those who loved her dearly.
Her family will receive guests on Tuesday, January 6th from 8:30-9:30 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett followed by her Funeral Mass at St. Francis Xavier Church, 125 Main St. Acushnet at 10 AM. Burial will follow in Acushnet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Hospice at Southcoast Health at Home, 200 Mill Road, Suite 201, Fairhaven, MA 02719, (508) 973-3200. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
