Tomiko Itooka, a Japanese woman recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest person, has passed away at the age of 116.
Yoshitsugu Nagata, an official responsible for elderly policies, confirmed on Saturday, January 4, that Itooka died on December 29 at a care home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture, central Japan.
Born on May 23, 1908, Itooka became the oldest living person last year after the passing of 117-year-old Maria Branyas, according to the Gerontology Research Group. When informed she held the title of the oldest person, she humbly responded, “Thank you.”
For her birthday last year, Itooka received flowers, a cake, and a card from the mayor.
A native of Osaka, Itooka was known for her energetic spirit, having been a volleyball player in high school, and even climbed Mount Ontake, standing at 3,067 meters (10,062 feet), twice.
She married at 20 and had two daughters and two sons. During World War II, she managed the office of her husband’s textile factory. After his death in 1979, Itooka lived alone in Nara.
Itooka is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. A private funeral was held with family and friends.
According to the Gerontology Research Group, the new oldest living person is 116-year-old Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, who was born 16 days after Itooka.
