Chiyo Miyako, the world’s oldest person has died aged 117 — just days after being recognised by Guinness World Records. Chiyo Miyako died at home in Japan on Sunday after her record-breaking title was confirmed by officials.
Known to her family as the goddess, Chiyo was born in Wakayama in the Kansai region of Japan, on 2 May 1901.
She was described as “chatty” — and her longevity was put down to a kind and patient temperament and a diet of sushi and eels.
He late husband Shoji worked for Japanese National Railways, which gave her a passion for travelling.
Guinness World Records has three longevity categories: the Oldest person living (male), Oldest person living (female), and Oldest person living.
The oldest male title is held by fellow Japanese Masazo Nonaka, who turned 113 on Wednesday (25 July), while the oldest person and oldest female titles are yet to be confirmed in the wake of Chiyo’s passing.
Jeanne Louise Calment from France, who lived to the age of 122 from 1875-1997, has the record for the oldest person ever.