World's Oldest Living Person Maria Branyas Morera Passes Away at 117, Leaving Legacy

Maria Branyas Morera, recognized as the world's oldest living person, passed away at the age of 117, as confirmed by her family on August 20. Branyas, who was born in San Francisco on March 4, 1907, led a remarkable life that spanned over a century, filled with historical events and personal milestones. Her family announced her peaceful death on social media, stating that she had "left us" as she wished: "in her sleep, peacefully and without pain." They remembered her for her wisdom and kindness, underscoring the profound impact she had on their lives. Branyas had resided for nearly two decades at the Santa Maria del Tura nursing home in Olot, northeastern Spain. Just hours before her passing, she had shared a poignant message expressing her feelings of weakness and preparing her loved ones for her impending departure. "The time is near. Don't cry, I don't like tears," she wrote. "And above all, don't suffer for me. Wherever I go, I will be happy." Her sentiments reflected a serene acceptance of life's passage and a desire for her family to find peace in her memory. Branyas lived through significant historical events, including the 1918 flu pandemic, both World Wars, and the Spanish Civil War. Remarkably, she contracted COVID-19 in 2020, shortly after celebrating her 113th birthday, but managed to recover fully. Her resilience and fortitude through such trying times have been a source of inspiration to many. Her longevity has often been attributed to genetics, as noted by her youngest daughter, Rosa Moret, who remarked on her mother's good health. "She has never gone to the hospital, she has never broken any bones, she is fine, she has no pain," Moret stated in a recent interview. This assertion was echoed by Manel Esteller, a genetics professor at the University of Barcelona, who studied Branyas' DNA. He noted her mental clarity and lack of cardiovascular disease, despite her mobility and hearing challenges, highlighting her exceptional health for someone of her age. Branyas' life story is marked by both triumph and tragedy. After her family returned to Spain from the United States in 1915 amid World War I, they faced personal loss as her father died during the challenging Atlantic crossing. She married a doctor in 1931, and together they had three children, enduring the trials of the Spanish Civil War and the subsequent years, until her husband passed away at age 72. Guinness World Records officially recognized Branyas as the world’s oldest person in January 2023, following the death of French nun Lucile Randon. With Branyas' passing, the title now goes to Japan’s Tomiko Itooka, who is currently 116 years old. The legacy left by Maria Branyas Morera extends beyond her remarkable age; it serves as a testament to resilience, love, and the rich tapestry of human experience. Her story will continue to inspire generations, reminding us all of the strength of the human spirit in the face of life's challenges.