Maria Branyas Morera, recognized as the world's oldest living person, has died at 117.
Her peaceful passing occurred in her sleep, fulfilling her longtime wish, Mail Online reported.
Maria Branyas Morera was born in 1907 in San Francisco amidst a Bubonic plague outbreak, marking the beginning of a life that would span over a century of profound historical changes. She married Catalan doctor Joan Moret in 1931, and the couple had three children together. Mr. Moret passed away more than four decades ago, leaving Maria with a large family including 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Moving to Spain during World War I due to her father's illness, Maria would eventually witness many global calamities, including the Spanish Flu, the Spanish Civil War, and World War II, exhibiting remarkable resilience through them all. In her later years, she survived COVID-19, becoming one of the oldest people to recover from the virus at the age of 113.
Maria's longevity was a testament to her lifestyle centered around tranquility, order, and minimal stress—principles she advocated strongly. She resided in sheltered housing in Olot, Spain, from the age of 92, where she remained active well into her late 100s, engaging in reading and playing the piano until the age of 105.
Beyond her achievements and the quiet dignity with which she approached aging, Maria found a voice on social media, amassing over 16,000 followers on platform X. Here, she shared insights and reflections on longevity, connecting with generations far removed from her own experiences.
Salvador Illa, the former health minister, commented on her passing, recognizing her as a cherished figure who left a deep impression of life's value and the wisdom acquired through age.
Maria often shared reflections on life and longevity, emphasizing a humble approach to diet and health, well before modern fads.
"In an age when diets and miracle foods for well-being and health are constantly emerging, it is necessary to rescue yogurt, a lifelong food with an infinite number of positive properties for the body."
Shortly before her death, Maria shared a poignant message with her followers and loved ones. Maria's daughter, Rosa Moret, highlighted her mother's health and vitality, noting her remarkable record of never having been hospitalized or suffering serious illnesses. Her approach to life was governed by simplicity and satisfaction, devoid of unnecessary complications.
In a statement that captured her readiness to embrace the finality of life, Maria communicated her thoughts about passing touchingly.
Maria Branyas Morera highlighted her readiness to face the end of her journey with a light heart and a smile, echoing a life well-lived and peacefully concluded.
Maria Branyas Morera's life was a living history lesson, a journey through some of the most pivotal moments of the last century, and her death marks the passing of a remarkable era. Admirably, she lived her life with grace and strength, leaving behind a legacy that is as much about the longevity of her years as it is about the quality of her philosophies and the tranquility with which she approached the end.
