Maria Branyas Morera, the world’s oldest person, has passed away at the age of 117. Her life, a journey through centuries, ended peacefully in her sleep on August 20, 2023.
Today reported that Morera was born on March 4, 1907, in San Francisco. The early years of her life in America were brief, as she moved to Catalonia, Spain with her family when she was just eight years old.
Living through significant epochs such as two world wars and multiple pandemics, Maria experienced first-hand the drastic changes of the 20th and early 21st centuries.
She credited her impressive longevity to a combination of good genetics and a bit of luck.
Maria was not only known for her age but for her active engagement on social media, where she shared insights and advice under her famous bio: "I'm old, very old, but not an idiot."
Her presence on X reflected a wise and witty personality that connected with both young and old followers worldwide.
She often discussed the importance of embracing every day, regardless of its challenges.
In 2020, Maria faced one of her toughest challenges yet—battling COVID-19. At 113, she overcame the virus, highlighting her exceptional resilience.
During her illness, she expressed her struggles with loneliness and insecurity, which she felt exacerbated her fears and reduced her quality of life.
Her recovery was a beacon of hope and a testament to her strength, celebrated by her family and admirers alike.
Maria often pondered her longevity and the peculiarities of such a long life. Shortly before her passing, she shared poignant reflections on her life and the things she would miss.
"One day I will leave here. I will not try coffee again, nor eat yogurt, nor caress Fairy," she mused, indicating her deep connection to daily joys and her recently deceased pet.
Her philosophical view on life and death continued to inspire those who heard her words.
Her longevity earned her the title of the oldest living person from Guinness World Records in January 2023, following the death of Lucile Randon.
For over two decades, Maria resided at the Residència Santa María del Tura nursing home in Olot, Catalonia, where she was well cared for and deeply loved.
The title has now passed to Tomiko Itooka of Japan, who is 116 years old.
"Maria Branyas has left us. She has died as she wanted: in her sleep, peacefully and without pain," her family stated on X, confirming her peaceful departure.
The statement continued, "We will always remember her for her advice and kindness," emphasizing her impact not just as a record holder, but as a cherished individual.
Her life, bridging two centuries, remains a profound reminder of the changes and constants in human existence.
