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Tomiko Itooka, a Japanese woman who held the title of the world’s oldest person at 116 years old, has passed away, according to an official from Ashiya city. She died on December 29 at a care home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture, central Japan.
Born on May 23, 1908, Itooka was recognized by the Guinness World Records after the death of 117-year-old Maria Branyas, claiming the title last year. She was known for her love of bananas and Calpis, a yogurt-flavored Japanese drink. When told she had reached the top of the World Supercentenarian Rankings List, she simply replied, “Thank you.”
Throughout her life, Itooka remained active and sprightly. As a high school volleyball player, she was well-known for her energetic spirit and even climbed Mount Ontake twice, standing at 3,067 meters (10,062 feet). She managed her husband’s textile factory during World War II and lived independently in Nara after his death in 1979.
Itooka had two daughters, two sons, and is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. A funeral service was held with her family and friends.
Following her death, the title of the world’s oldest living person passed to Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, who was born 16 days after Itooka.
