María Branyas Morera: A Life Spanning Over a Century
María Branyas Morera, the oldest person in the world, passed away peacefully at the age of 117 on August 20, 2024, in her sleep at a nursing home in Olot, Catalonia. Her family announced her death on social media, sharing that she left this world as she wished—calm and without pain. Born on March 4, 1907, in San Francisco to Spanish exiles, Branyas experienced a remarkable life that spanned two world wars, numerous pandemics, and the evolution of modern society.
A Legacy of Resilience and Wisdom
Branyas was recognized as the oldest living person since January 2023, following the death of French nun Lucile Randon. Her life was marked by resilience; she survived the 1918 flu pandemic, the Spanish Civil War, and even contracted COVID-19 at the age of 113, from which she recovered swiftly. Her family described her as a source of wisdom and kindness, recalling her words in her final days: "Don't cry, I don't like tears. Wherever I go, I will be happy."
The Search for Longevity
The scientific community has shown great interest in Branyas' extraordinary longevity. Manel Esteller, a researcher from the University of Barcelona, studied her DNA to uncover the secrets behind her remarkable health. Despite her advanced age, Branyas had never been hospitalized or suffered any major health issues, a rarity among centenarians. With her passing, the title of the world's oldest person now goes to 116-year-old Tomiko Itooka from Japan. Branyas leaves behind a legacy of family, including three children, eleven grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren.
- María Branyas Morera's life was not only long but also filled with significant historical events. She witnessed the sinking of the Titanic when she was just five years old and lived through the tumultuous years of the Spanish Civil War. Her family returned to Spain in 1915, after her father died during their journey. Branyas married a doctor in 1930 and had three children, one of whom has since passed away. Her active lifestyle continued well into her later years, as she engaged in daily exercises and played the piano until she was 105. Her family attributes her longevity to good genes and a positive outlook on life. Branyas often expressed her desire for her family not to mourn her passing, emphasizing her belief in happiness beyond this life.
