- Ethel Caterham became the world's oldest person in April 2025 after the death of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas at 116.
- Ethel Caterham turned 117, sharing her secret to a long life: "Never arguing with anyone, I listen, and I do what I like."
- In a statement, she thanked well-wishers, noting she has had many firsts this year, from stroking a llama to holding hands with the King.
Ethel Caterham, born on August 21, 1909, in Shipton Bellinger, has lived through significant historical events, including both World Wars.1
"Never arguing with anyone, I listen, and I do what I like," she shared, revealing her secret to a long life.
Celebrating her 117th birthday at Hallmark Lakeview Care Home, she expressed gratitude for the birthday wishes, stating, "Thank you for all of the kind birthday wishes. Even at 117, I’ve had many firsts this year, from stroking a llama to holding hands with the King."3
Caterham, who survived Covid-19 in 2020 at age 110, reflects on her life filled with love and resilience. She met her late husband, Norman, a lieutenant colonel in the British Army, at a dinner party in 1931.
Her remarkable journey includes a visit from King Charles, who held her hand last September, just after her 116th birthday. Caterham's life story is a testament to the power of positivity and connection, as she continues to inspire those around her.
“Caterham, who survived Covid at 110, became the world's oldest person in April 2025 after the death of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas at 116. In a birthday statement, she thanked well-wishers, noting she has had many firsts this year, from stroking a llama to holding hands with the King.”
The Independent
