Japanese woman Tomiko Itooka, recognized as the world's oldest person by Guinness World Records, passed away at the age of 116. Itooka, a resident of Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture, died on December 29th at a care facility.
Itooka's death marks the end of an extraordinary life. Born in 1908, she maintained an active spirit, known for her love of bananas and Calpis, a Japanese yogurt-flavored drink. She was also an accomplished high school volleyball player, and famously climbed Mount Ontake twice.
Following the death of the previous record holder, 117-year-old Maria Branyas, Itooka became the world's oldest person last year. When informed of her achievement, she simply responded with a "Thank you." Further adding to her remarkable journey, she received birthday congratulations from the mayor, including flowers, a cake, and a card.
Her long and full life included managing her husband's textile factory during World War II. She then lived independently in Nara after his passing in 1979. Itooka is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. A private funeral was held.
The Gerontology Research Group has named 116-year-old Inah Canabarro Lucas, a Brazilian nun born 16 days after Itooka, as the new oldest person in the world.
