The world’s oldest person, Japanese woman Tomiko Itoka, passed away at the age of 116 in Japan, city officials confirmed.
Tomiko Itoka died on December 29 at a nursing home in the city of Ashiya.
“Her long life gave us hope – we are deeply grateful for that,” stated Mayor Rosuke Takashina, according to the BBC.
A Remarkable Life Recognized by Guinness
Tomiko entered the Guinness World Records after the death of María Branyas Morera, a Spanish woman who held the title of the world’s oldest person until August 2024, at the age of 117.
Born in May 1908, Tomiko Itoka was officially declared the oldest living person in the world in September 2024. This recognition coincided with Japan’s Respect for the Aged Day, a national holiday that celebrates
A Life of Resilience and Achievements
Tomiko Itoka’s life spanned an era of monumental global and technological changes. She witnessed two world wars, pandemics, and remarkable advancements in science and technology. Born into a family with one brother and one sister, she spent her youth pursuing sports and was particularly passionate about volleyball during her student days.
One of her most notable accomplishments was climbing Mount Ontake, Japan’s second-highest volcano, not once but twice. Standing at 3,067 meters, the climb showcased her adventurous spirit and remarkable vitality, even in an era when such feats were rare for women.
At the age of 20, Tomiko married and went on to have two daughters and two sons. During World War II, she worked in her husband’s textile factory, demonstrating her resilience and adaptability in challenging times.
Independent in Later Years
After her husband passed away in 1979, Tomiko lived alone, maintaining an active and independent lifestyle well into her later years. Her longevity became an inspiration not just to her community but to people worldwide.
She leaves behind one surviving son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. Her funeral was a private affair, attended by close family members who honored her extraordinary legacy.
What’s Next for the Title of the Oldest Person?
Following Tomiko Itoka’s passing, the title of the world’s oldest person is believed to belong to Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas. Sister Inah is 116 years old, just 16 days younger than Tomiko at the time of her death.
Lessons from a Life Well-Lived
Tomiko’s life serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of determination. Her long and eventful journey reminds us of the importance of staying active, embracing challenges, and finding joy in life’s simplest moments. Whether climbing mountains, managing a family, or navigating the complexities of a century of change, Tomiko lived with grace and strength.
In Japan, a country renowned for its high life expectancy, Tomiko’s story will continue to inspire future generations. Her recognition on the global stage as the world’s oldest person is not just a celebration of her years but of the meaningful and adventurous life she led.
Her legacy serves as a reminder that age is not a barrier to achieving great things and that every stage of life brings opportunities for growth and contribution. Tomiko Itoka’s incredible life journey will remain an enduring symbol of hope, perseverance, and the extraordinary potential of the human spirit.
