World’s Oldest Person Dies at 116 in Brazil

The world’s oldest living person, Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, has died at the age of 116, according to the Guinness World Records and longevity tracking group LongeviQuest. 

She passed away on Wednesday in Brazil, just 39 days short of her 117th birthday.

Born on June 8, 1908, Canabarro had been recognized as the oldest verified living person globally.

Although she claimed her birthdate was May 27, 1908, researchers determined it was actually 11 days later. LongeviQuest noted that her fragile health during childhood had led many to doubt she would survive into adulthood.

Canabarro became a nun in 1934 and dedicated much of her life to teaching. When asked about the secret to her longevity, she credited her long life to divine support, saying it was the key to everything.

With Canabarro’s passing, the title of the world’s oldest living person now goes to Ethel Caterham from England, who is currently 115 years and 252 days old. In Brazil, Isabel Rosa Pereira, aged 114, is now the country’s oldest living person.