Inah Canabarro Lucas, the World's Oldest Person, Passes Away at 116

Inah Canabarro Lucas, recognized as the oldest person in the world, has passed away at the age of 116. Born in 1908 in Brazil, Lucas defied early medical predictions that she would never reach adulthood. Despite her frail beginnings, she lived a remarkably long life, even surviving a COVID-19 infection at the age of 116.

Lucas, a nun of the Teresian order, dedicated her life to faith and service. She joined the order at 19 and spent her years teaching Portuguese and religious studies in Uruguay. Later, she resided in a convent in Porto Alegre, Brazil, where she remained committed to her religious duties. Throughout her life, Lucas never married and had no children, focusing instead on her spiritual journey.

In interviews, she expressed a deep love for prayer, stating that her daily practice of praying the rosary for all people was her secret to longevity. Beyond her spiritual pursuits, Lucas enjoyed simple pleasures, such as gardening, painting, and playing cards with her fellow sisters.

Lucas was also a passionate football fan, supporting the Brazilian club Internacional Porto Alegre, which celebrated her birthdays with special events, including cakes and balloons. Her vibrant spirit and love for life endeared her to many.

At 110, Lucas received a blessing from the late Pope Francis, marking a significant moment in her life. She also made headlines for being the oldest person to receive a COVID-19 vaccination in January 2021, demonstrating her resilience against the pandemic.

Following her passing, Ethel Caterham, a 115-year-old from Surrey, England, has now taken the title of the world's oldest living person. The legacy of Inah Canabarro Lucas will be remembered for her unwavering faith, strength, and the joy she brought to those around her.