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Surrey Resident Celebrates 116th Birthday as World’s Oldest Person
Ethel Caterham, a resident of Surrey, England, celebrated her 116th birthday on Thursday, quietly enjoying the day with her family. Caterham recently became the world’s oldest living person following the passing of Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas earlier this year.
The Hallmark Care Homes facility where Caterham resides released a statement on her behalf, expressing gratitude for the numerous well-wishes received. While she declined interviews, the care home hinted that a conversation with King Charles III might be a possibility. The King traditionally sends greetings to centenarians, and last year, Caterham received a letter from then-Prince Charles congratulating her on reaching 115.
Born in 1909, Caterham has lived through remarkable historical events, including two World Wars and even a bout of COVID-19 in 2020, which she survived at the age of 110. A great-grandmother, she attributes her long life to a simple philosophy: “Never arguing with anyone! I listen and I do what I like.”
Caterham’s remarkable longevity places her among the oldest people ever recorded. She is the last living subject of King Edward VII, having outlived her husband and two daughters. A testament to her enduring spirit, she drove until she was nearly 100 and enjoyed playing bridge well into her later years.