THE WORLD'S OLDEST PERSON, ETHEL CATERHAM, CELEBRATES HER 116TH BIRTHDAY

Ethel Caterham, who holds the title of the world's oldest living person, has reached the extraordinary milestone of 116 years. The great-grandmother, who survived COVID-19 at age 111, credits her longevity to a simple, peaceful life.

A remarkable new chapter has begun for Ethel Caterham, the world's oldest person. The English great-grandmother celebrated her 116th birthday on August 21, 2025, receiving well-wishes and messages from around the globe. The care home in Surrey where she lives shared, "Ethel and her family are very grateful for all the kind messages and interest shown on the occasion of her 116th birthday."

Ethel became the record holder for longevity following the death of Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas on April 30. Born in 1909, she has lived through a century of history, from the reign of King Edward VII to the modern era. As the youngest of eight children, she has witnessed major global events and immense societal changes.

After her record was officially recognized in May, Ethel received a personal letter from King Charles III. Her life story is one of adventure and resilience. At 18, she moved to colonial India to work as an au pair. Upon returning to Great Britain, she met her future husband, Norman, whom she married in 1933. Their life together took them to Hong Kong and Gibraltar before they settled back in England. Widowed in 1976, she remained active, driving until she was nearly 100 and even recovering from COVID-19 at the age of 111.

When asked to share her secret to a long life, Ethel’s answer was disarmingly simple: "Never arguing with anyone."