Tomiko Itooka, recognized as the world’s oldest person by Guinness World Records, has passed away at the age of 116. She died on December 29, 2024, at a nursing facility in the southern city of Japan, where she had been residing since 2019. The city’s mayor, Ryosuke Takashima, expressed his heartfelt condolences following her death, noting the profound impact she had on the community. “Ms. Itooka gave us great courage and hope throughout her long life. I would like to express my gratitude once again,” he said in a public statement.
Itooka’s death marks the end of an era, as she had been the world’s oldest person after the passing of Maria Branyas Morera in August 2024. Branyas, who was from Spain, had lived to the age of 117. Tomiko Itooka’s remarkable longevity had captured the public’s attention, and in May 2024, she celebrated her 116th birthday with a special visit from the mayor of her city. She was also formally recognized by Guinness World Records later that year when representatives visited her in September to present her with the official certificate.
Despite being hard of hearing, those who cared for her reported that she remained communicative and alert, a testament to her remarkable health and mental clarity. Throughout her life, Itooka had been surrounded by a loving family, which included four children and five grandchildren. She was born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Japan, during the reign of Emperor Meiji, a period that predates much of modern Japan as we know it today.
Itooka’s passing has not only left a legacy of personal resilience but also serves as a reminder of the potential for long life. In a world where records of longevity continue to capture attention, her story stands as an inspiring example of the human capacity for endurance, connection, and the quiet strength that can span over a century of profound societal changes.
