Ethel Caterham, the world’s oldest person, marked a remarkable milestone as she turned 116 years old on August 21, 2025. The British woman, who currently resides in a care home in Surrey, quietly celebrated the occasion with her family, embracing the day at her own pace.
Her title as the oldest living person came after the passing of Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas in April 2025. Born on August 21, 1909, in Shipton Bellinger, a village in southwestern England, Caterham is now the oldest living individual, according to the Gerontological Research Group (GRG) and the LongeviQuest database.
Caterham, who lived through two world wars, many decades of change, and countless historical events, shared her secret to long life: “Never arguing with anyone! I listen and I do what I like.” She has outlived both her two daughters and her husband, Norman, who passed away in 1976. The great-grandmother now has three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, and her enduring health is nothing short of extraordinary.
Despite her age, Caterham has maintained a sharp mind, having continued to play bridge well into her later years. She even survived a bout of COVID-19 at the age of 110. In a statement released by her care home, her family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support she has received from well-wishers. “Ethel and her family are so grateful for all of the kind messages and interest shown to her as she celebrates her 116th birthday this year.”
Although Caterham has kept her celebrations private, the care home hinted that one special concession might be made: a letter from King Charles III, the British monarch, who previously congratulated her on her 115th birthday with a personal message. She also had the honour of being the last living subject of King Edward VII.
