World’s Oldest Woman, Tomiko Itooka, dies at 116 in Japan
Japanese authorities have announced the passing of Tomiko Itooka, a Japanese woman recognized as the world’s oldest person. She passed away at the age of 116.
Officials in Ashiya City confirmed her death on Saturday, January 4, and shared that she had been living in a nursing home since 2019.
A government official responsible for senior citizens stated that Tomiko Itooka passed away on December 29, but the news was officially announced on Saturday.
The mayor of Ashiya issued a statement, noting that Tomiko Itooka, the world’s oldest woman, passed away surrounded by her family, leaving behind four children and five grandchildren.
According to Japanese media, she was born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, a commercial hub near Ashiya.
Last year, Japanese officials celebrated Tomiko Itooka’s 116th birthday by gifting her flowers and a birthday cake.
Tomiko Itooka was born during the Meiji era and, at 32, participated in World War II.
It is worth mentioning that before Tomiko Itooka, Maria Branyas Morera, a Spanish citizen, held the title of the world’s oldest person. Morera passed away in August 2024 at the age of 117.
Tomiko Itooka’s life spanned over a century of remarkable historical changes, witnessing eras of transformation and resilience. Her longevity and experiences remain an inspiring testament to the strength and endurance of the human spirit.
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