In a poignant farewell, Tomiko Itooka, recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest person, has passed away at the age of 116. The news was confirmed by Yoshitsugu Nagata, an official overseeing elderly policies, who announced that Itooka died on December 29 at a care home in Ashiya, located in Hyogo Prefecture, central Japan.

Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Itooka’s life spanned incredible historical moments, including two world wars and multiple pandemics. She recently ascended to the title of the oldest living person last year, following the death of Maria Branyas, who was 117 years old. Itooka took the news of her unique status with graceful humility, simply responding, “Thank you,” when informed of her place atop the World Supercentenarian Rankings List.

A lover of simple pleasures, she enjoyed bananas and a yogurt-flavored Japanese drink called Calpis. Celebrating her last birthday in style, Itooka was honored with flowers, a cake, and a personal card from the Mayor of Ashiya, Ryosuke Takashima, who remarked, “Ms. Itooka gave us courage and hope through her long life.”

In her younger days, Itooka was an active volleyball player and even scaled the 3,067-meter (10,062-ft) Mount Ontake twice, showcasing her vibrant spirit. At age 20, she married and went on to have two daughters and two sons. Her resilience shone during World War II when she managed her husband’s textile factory. Following her husband’s death in 1979, she lived alone in Nara but continued to be a beloved figure in her community, ultimately surrounded by her family at the end of her life, which included one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren.

As Japan faces a demographic crisis with an aging population leading to rising medical and welfare costs, Itooka's remarkable lifespan underscores challenges and triumphs of longevity in the nation. Her legacy now lives on in the hearts of those she left behind and in the stories of resilience and strength she demonstrated throughout her life.

Today, the title of the world's oldest person is passed to a 116-year-old nun from Brazil, Inah Canabarro Lucas, who was born just 16 days after Itooka. While the world mourns her departure, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with courage, history, and inspiration.