Tomiko Itooka, recognized as the world’s oldest person, passed away at 116, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and joy.
Ashiya: Tomiko Itooka, a remarkable woman, lived an incredible life and sadly passed away on December 29 at the age of 116. She was recognized as the world’s oldest living person.
Born on May 23, 1908, she experienced so much, including two World Wars. Itooka was a proud matriarch, raising four children and five grandchildren.
She had a love for simple things, like bananas and Calpis, a yogurt drink. Her 116th birthday was celebrated with a big cake and a card from the local mayor.
After her husband passed away in 1979, she chose a quieter life. But she still climbed Japan’s second-highest volcano, Mount Ontake, twice!
Local mayor Ryosuke Takashima expressed gratitude for her inspiring life, saying she brought courage and hope to many. Itooka’s legacy will surely live on.
Following her passing, the title of the oldest living person has now gone to Inah Canabarro Lucas, a Brazilian nun born just 16 days after Itooka.
