Ethel Caterham Turns 117 as World’s Oldest Person After a Year of Firsts
Updated
Updated · The Independent · Aug 21
Ethel Caterham Turns 117 as World’s Oldest Person After a Year of Firsts
3 articles · Updated · The Independent · Aug 21
Summary
117-year-old Ethel Caterham is celebrating her birthday Friday at a Surrey care home with family and friends, extending her tenure as the world’s oldest living person.
Caterham took that title in April 2025 after Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas died at 116, and she has credited longevity to “never arguing with anyone.”
This year brought what she called “many firsts,” including stroking a llama and, after her 116th birthday, holding hands with King Charles during a visit.
Born on Aug. 21, 1909, Caterham is the last surviving subject of Edward VII, survived Covid-19 at 110 and drove until 97.
Her 117th birthday still leaves her short of the all-time record: Jeanne Calment of France lived to 122 years and 164 days, according to Guinness World Records.