Maria Branyas Morera, recognised as the world’s oldest person, passed away on August 19, 2024, at the age of 117. She died peacefully in her sleep at a nursing home in Catalonia, where she lived for the past two decades.
Her family and Guinness World Records (GWR) confirmed her death, marking the end of an extraordinary life that spanned three centuries and some of the most significant events in modern history.
Early life and transatlantic journey
Maria was born on March 4, 1907, in San Francisco, California, to Spanish parents who had emigrated to the United States a year earlier. Her early life in America saw her family move to various locations, including Texas and New Orleans. In 1915, amidst World War I, Maria’s family decided to return to Catalonia. The journey was perilous, and during the voyage, Maria lost hearing in one ear after a fall on the ship. Her father also passed away during this time due to pulmonary tuberculosis.
Life in Spain and marriage
After settling in Barcelona, and later in Banyoles, Maria married Dr. Joan Moret in 1931. The couple had three children and lived through the Spanish Civil War. During that time, they worked together to treat wounded soldiers. Following the war, Maria continued to assist her husband in his medical practice until his death in 1976.
Longevity and historical milestones
Maria’s life was marked by her longevity and her experience of key historical events, including both World Wars, the Spanish Civil War, the Spanish Flu pandemic, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Remarkably, she survived COVID-19 in 2020 at the age of 113, making her one of the oldest known survivors of the virus.
In January 2023, following the death of French nun Sister André, Maria was recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living person. She attributed her long life to “order, tranquility, good connections with family and friends, contact with nature, emotional stability, no worries, no regrets, lots of positivity, and staying away from toxic people.” She also credited good luck and genetics as key factors.
Final years and legacy
Maria remained active in her later years, even using social media with the help of her daughter to communicate with her followers. She celebrated her 117th birthday in March 2024, surrounded by family and friends at her care home. Despite mobility issues and being hard of hearing, Maria was otherwise healthy and mentally sharp until her death.
Maria is survived by two of her three children, 11 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren. Her life and legacy are a testament to resilience, optimism, and the power of positive living. As the eighth-oldest person in recorded history, Maria Branyas Morera’s remarkable journey is inspirational.