One of the world’s wealthiest women is Elisabeth DeLuca, widow of Subway co-founder Fred DeLuca. After inheriting her late husband’s large sandwich business stake, she has perpetuated the family’s legacy and created a new one via philanthropy. The billionaire Elisabeth DeLuca’s story shows her endurance and ambition.
1. Early Life and Career
Nursing profession began for 1947-born Elisabeth DeLuca. She worked hard as a nurse before a major change. She married Fred DeLuca, who started Subway with family friend Peter Buck, in 1965. Elisabeth worked as a nurse while Fred built the firm.
2. The DeLuca Family and Subway’s Origins
Subway was born out of a desire to create a healthy, affordable dining option for people. Fred DeLuca and Peter Buck opened the first Subway store in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1965. With Elisabeth DeLuca by Fred’s side throughout the years, the sandwich franchise grew to become one of the largest fast-food chains in the world. As the business flourished, Elisabeth took on an increasingly important role in supporting Fred’s vision.
3. Inheriting the Subway Empire
Following Fred DeLuca’s tragic passing in 2015 after a battle with leukemia, Elisabeth became the sole heir to his 50% stake in Subway. As a result, she inherited a significant portion of the sandwich empire, which has earned her a considerable fortune. Today, Elisabeth DeLuca’s net worth is estimated to be around $8.6 billion (as of 2025).
4. Elisabeth DeLuca’s Quiet Influence
Despite her massive wealth, Elisabeth DeLuca has remained largely out of the public eye. Unlike many billionaire heirs who embrace the spotlight, she prefers to stay out of the media’s gaze. This low-profile lifestyle, however, has not deterred her from making an immense impact behind the scenes.
5. The Elisabeth C. DeLuca Foundation
Elisabeth DeLuca’s philanthropy is notable. Through the Elisabeth C. DeLuca Foundation, she has donated heavily to education, conservation, and healthcare. Her humanitarian work shows her ideals and desire to give back to the community that supported her family.
6. Major Donations and Impact
Elisabeth DeLuca’s commitment to philanthropy is evident in her many charitable donations. In 2023, she made a historic $50 million donation to the University of Connecticut’s School of Nursing. This gift was the largest in the university’s history and demonstrated her deep passion for healthcare and nursing education.
7. Focus on Education
Education has been a central focus of Elisabeth DeLuca’s charitable contributions. She has earmarked millions of dollars to support academic institutions and healthcare-related programs. By investing in education, Elisabeth believes she is helping to shape the future for young people and ensuring that her family’s wealth benefits society for generations to come.
8. Environmental and Conservation Efforts
In addition to her contributions to education, Elisabeth has also focused on environmental conservation. She has donated significant funds to initiatives aimed at preserving natural landscapes and promoting sustainability. These efforts align with her values of protecting the planet and supporting long-term ecological well-being.
9. Elisabeth DeLuca’s Net Worth and Financial Legacy
Elisabeth DeLuca’s net worth continues to grow as she reinvests her inherited Subway royalties and makes wise financial decisions. Through her foundation and other investments, she has ensured that her wealth will not only secure her family’s future but also support global causes for many years to come. With an estimated $8.6 billion net worth, Elisabeth stands as one of the wealthiest women globally, although she remains a relatively private figure in the business world.
10. Elisabeth DeLuca’s Future
Elisabeth DeLuca wants to leave a lasting humanitarian legacy for her late husband. Elisabeth’s future will undoubtedly be defined by her generosity and devotion to the greater good, since she has given millions to charity causes. Elisabeth DeLuca helps alter the world via healthcare, education, and the environment.
Finally, Elisabeth DeLuca’s life shows dedication, hard effort, and a constant desire to give back. She may be wealthy, but her philanthropy defines her legacy. Elisabeth, worth $8.6 billion, carries her husband’s legacy.
FAQ
Who is Elisabeth DeLuca?
Elisabeth DeLuca is the widow of Fred DeLuca, co-founder of Subway. After Fred’s passing in 2015, she inherited his 50% stake in the sandwich chain and became a billionaire with an estimated net worth of $8.6 billion.
What is Elisabeth DeLuca’s net worth?
As of 2025, Elisabeth DeLuca’s net worth is estimated to be $8.6 billion, largely due to her inheritance from Subway, as well as her investments and charitable efforts.
What is the Elisabeth C. DeLuca Foundation?
The Elisabeth C. DeLuca Foundation is a charitable organization focused on supporting education, healthcare, and environmental conservation, reflecting Elisabeth’s values of giving back to society.
How did Elisabeth DeLuca make her fortune?
Elisabeth DeLuca inherited her late husband’s share of Subway, which has made her a billionaire. She continues to grow her wealth through investments and philanthropic activities.
What causes does Elisabeth DeLuca support?
Elisabeth is known for her philanthropy, focusing on education, nursing, healthcare, and environmental conservation. She has made large donations to institutions like the University of Connecticut’s School of Nursing.
