Ethel Caterham, World’s Oldest Person, Turns 116. Her Secret? Listen, But Do What You Like

Last Updated:August 21, 2025, 18:42 IST

Ethel Caterham, born in 1909, celebrated her 116th birthday in Surrey, She is now the world’s oldest living person.

World’s oldest person Ethel Caterham is seen. (Image Credit: Associated Press)

Ethel Caterham, the last surviving Edwardian and officially the world’s oldest living person, marked her 116th birthday surrounded by family at her care home in Surrey. Born on 21 August 1909 in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, Ethel Caterham came into the world during the reign of King Edward VII and the premiership of Herbert Asquith.

Ethel Caterham, the second youngest of eight siblings, grew up in the twilight of the Edwardian era. She became the world’s oldest living person in April following the death of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas, who was also 116.

Ethel Caterham: A Life Spanning Eras

Ethel Caterham married British Army Major Norman Caterham in 1931, a match that took her to postings in Hong Kong and Gibraltar. They had two children together before Norman’s death in 1976, leaving her a widow for nearly half a century. Asked about the secret to her longevity, she replied simply, “I take everything in my stride, the highs and lows. I listen but I do what I like."

Ethel Caterham Marks 116th Birthday Quietly

Her care home in Lightwater said Ethel Caterham had chosen to mark the day quietly. A spokesperson said, “Ethel and her family are so grateful for all of the kind messages and interest shown to her as she celebrates her 116th birthday this year. She has again chosen not to give any interviews, preferring to spend the day quietly with her family so that she can enjoy it at her own pace. The King may be her one concession, understandably."

Last year, King Charles III sent Ethel Caterham a card to mark her 115th birthday. Though Ethel Caterham is now the oldest living person, the record for human longevity still belongs to Jeanne Calment of France, who died in 1997 at the age of 122 years and 164 days.

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Location :

United Kingdom (UK)

First Published:

August 21, 2025, 18:42 IST

News world Ethel Caterham, World’s Oldest Person, Turns 116. Her Secret? Listen, But Do What You Like

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