Tributes Pour In for Maria Branyas Morera, World’s Oldest Person at 117

Tributes Pour In for Maria Branyas Morera, World’s Oldest Person at 117

3 minute read
Published: 8/20/2024

Maria Branyas Morera, the world's oldest person at 117 years old, has passed away peacefully in a nursing home in Catalonia, Spain, as confirmed by her family on social media.

Maria Branyas Morera's death marks the end of an extraordinary life that spanned over a century and witnessed significant historical events, from both World Wars to the COVID-19 pandemic. Upon her passing at age 117 and 168 days, she leaves behind a legacy of resilience and emotional stability, now succeeded as the world's oldest living person by 116-year-old Tomiko Itooka. Her family revealed her last wish was to embrace death joyfully, reflecting the unique perspective she maintained throughout her remarkable life.

Born on March 4, 1907, in San Francisco, California, Maria Branyas Morera led a life rich in history. She lived through monumental events such as World War I, the Spanish Civil War, World War II, and the 1918 flu pandemic, adapting and surviving in changing times. Her longevity was not just a testament to physical health but also to the emotional stability she cultivated throughout her life, as cited by family and friends.

Branyas was recognized as the world's oldest living person in January 2023 after the passing of French nun Sister André. However, she has since passed away at the age of 117.

For the past two decades, she resided at the Residencia Santa Maria Del Tura nursing home, where she reportedly enjoyed good company and maintained her cognitive abilities. Family members noted that she had a lucid mind, able to recall vivid memories from her early childhood, including experiences from when she was just four years old.

Despite the challenges posed by age, Branyas remained present on social media, often engaging with her audience on the platform known as X. Her online presence provided a glimpse into her life and thoughts, allowing others to connect with her on a personal level. She communicated her views and experiences, further establishing her as a figure well beyond just her age.

In 2020, Branyas tested positive for COVID-19, an event that highlighted her remarkable resilience. She successfully recovered from the virus, continuing to inspire others during the tumultuous period of the pandemic. Her life story eventually became intertwined with her public health experiences, showcasing her strength through adversity.

Family members mentioned that her longevity could be attributed to several factors, including strong emotional connections with family and friends, as well as genetics. The combination of these aspects has contributed to not only a lengthy life but also a quality of life that evidently stayed vibrant and fulfilling.

As tributes pour in from around the world, Maria Branyas Morera is remembered as a repository of history and a beacon for many. Her legacy will continue through her stories and the lives she touched during her incredible journey spanning more than a century.

Tomiko Itooka, now recognized as the world's oldest living person at 116 years old, succeeded Maria Branyas Morera, who died at the age of 117. The transition highlights the cycle of life and the enduring human spirit, as new stories will emerge, inspired by those who have gone before.