World’s Oldest Person, Tomiko Itooka, Passes Away at 116
Tomiko Itooka, a 116-year-old Japanese woman recognized as the world’s oldest person, has died, according to reports from Japanese media.
Public broadcaster NHK revealed that Itooka passed away on December 29 at a retirement home in Ashiya, located in Japan’s southern Hyogo prefecture.
Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Itooka was the eldest of three siblings and leaves behind a legacy through her four children and five grandchildren.
Following the death of Spain’s Maria Branyas Morera in August 2024 at age 117, the Guinness World Records officially named Itooka as the world’s oldest living person.
Ashiya’s mayor, Ryosuke Takashima, paid tribute to her, saying:
“During her long life, she has given us much courage and hope. We thank her once again and offer our sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.”
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As of September 2024, Japan recorded over 95,000 centenarians, with women accounting for 88% of this demographic, underscoring the country’s renowned longevity.
The title of the oldest person ever remains with Jeanne Louise Calment of France, who lived to 122 years and 164 days before her death in August 1997.
