The world’s oldest person dies at 116

Tomiko Itooka, who held the title of the world’s oldest person according to Guinness World Records, passed away at the age of 116 in Ashiya, Japan. She was born on May 23, 1908, and was known for her love of bananas and the yogurt-flavored Japanese drink Calpis. She became the oldest person in the world last year after the passing of 117-year-old Maria Branyas, as confirmed by the Gerontology Research Group.

When Itooka was informed that she had reached the top of the World Supercentenarian Rankings List, she simply responded with a humble “Thank you.” On her birthday last year, she received flowers, a cake, and a card from the mayor of Ashiya, where she resided. Born in Osaka, Itooka was a former volleyball player in high school and was known for her energetic spirit. She even climbed the 3,067-meter Mount Ontake twice in her lifetime.

Itooka was married at the age of 20 and had two daughters and two sons. She managed the office of her husband’s textile factory during World War II. After her husband passed away in 1979, she lived independently in Nara. She is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. A funeral service was held with family and friends to honor her memory.

The title of the world’s oldest person now belongs to 116-year-old Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, who was born just 16 days after Itooka. As we remember Tomiko Itooka’s remarkable life and legacy, we celebrate her longevity and the impact she had on those around her.