Tomiko Itooka, the Japanese woman recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest person in the world, died at the age of 116.
He died at a nursing home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture, local officials confirmed.
Itooka assumed the title of the oldest person in the world in August 2024 after the death of the Spanish María Branyas Morera at the age of 117.
The young mayor of Ashiya, Ryosuke Takashima, described their longevity and resilience as a source of inspiration.
He said: “Mrs Itooka gave us courage and hope throughout her long life. We appreciate it.”
Born in May 1908, Ms. Itooka's life spanned an era marked by world wars, pandemics and radical technological advances. Its birth coincided with the launch of the Ford Model T and preceded the First World War by six years.
In September 2024, she was officially recognized as the world's oldest person and received the Guinness World Records certificate on Respect for the Elderly Day, a holiday celebrating elderly Japanese citizens.
Itooka married at the age of 20 and raised four children, two sons and two daughters, while managing the office of her husband's textile factory during World War II. After his death in 1979, she lived alone in Nara. He is survived by a son, a daughter and five grandchildren.
According to officials, a private funeral was held with family and close friends to honor his notable legacy.
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