Halina was born in the vicinity of Raseiniai. She became an orphan at an early age and spent her childhood in an orphanage, which taught her independence and resilience from a young age. While already living in Kvėdarna, she discovered that her brother was living in Tauragė and began to visit him — this discovery was deeply meaningful to her, as it restored a family connection she had long been missing.

People remember Halina as a warm-hearted and kind woman who loved celebrations and human connection. She spoke both Lithuanian and Polish and maintained close relations with the clergy in Kvėdarna. She managed a farm and owned land that she leased out, which allowed her to live comfortably. Her home contained finer furniture and tableware than was common in the area, yet she remained humble and close to the people around her. Halina loved music — she had a piano at home and often invited friends who played instruments. She was also known as an excellent cook who could prepare refined dishes, even ice cream and wine. Her name day, celebrated on June 16, was more important to her than her birthday.

During the German occupation, Halina and her husband, Vladislavas, sheltered a young man named Yakov Gurvich, who had escaped from the Telšiai ghetto. The Montvila couple created a story and introduced him to their neighbors as the son of relatives, under the name Albinas Gudžinskas. Rumors spread that he might be Halina’s illegitimate son — she did not rush to deny them, even though such gossip could have damaged her reputation, as this cover helped protect Yakov. Halina took care of his daily needs, providing food, clothing, and a sense of safety and belonging.

Yakov later wrote in his memoirs:
“The Montvilas were decent people. They had no children of their own and loved me very much. I helped them with all the farm work. I felt like a real son in their home.”

With the Montvilas’ help, Yakov obtained false identity papers and soon after found work at the Kvėdarna civil registry office. The couple worried about the risks of such a public position but trusted his judgment and did not let fear overcome their compassion.

After the war, Halina was widowed. She continued to show kindness — she sheltered Ramutė Jutkevičiūtė, who was afraid of sharing her mother’s fate (her mother had been shot by the Germans). Halina took her in just as she had once taken in Yakov, offering her safety and the warmth of home.

Halina lived for several more decades. She left her house to the family who had worked on her farm. In the surrounding area, she was long remembered as a kind, generous woman who knew how to find joy in life. Since Halina and Vladislavas had no children, the exact dates of their birth and death are not known — this information has survived only approximately.

On September 28, 2006, Halina Montvilienė, together with her husband Vladislavas Montvila, was recognized as Righteous Among the Nations.