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A remarkable milestone in American history has just been reached. Naomi Whitefield, a 114-year-old woman from Pennsylvania, has become the oldest known living person in the United States. Whitefield celebrated her 114th birthday on September 26, surrounded by family and friends. This celebration was particularly meaningful as it followed the passing of Elizabeth Francis, a 115-year-old Texan, who previously held the title until she passed away on October 22, as confirmed by LongeviQuest, an organization dedicated to tracking the oldest individuals worldwide.
A Life Rooted in Resilience and Hard Work
Naomi Whitefield’s life story is as inspiring as it is enduring. Born on a farm in Georgia in 1910, she spent her childhood assisting her family in the cotton and tobacco fields. Reflecting on her younger years, Whitefield recalls, “The farm had horses, and I remember being scared of getting kicked by them.” She married her late husband, Sylvester Whitefield, in 1930, and together they raised three children, Parrish L., Elbert, and Sylvester. Whitefield’s eldest son, Parrish, passed away in 2011, and her husband died in the 1980s.