America has lost its oldest resident, Elizabeth Francis, who passed away peacefully at her home in Houston at the remarkable age of 115. She was surrounded by her loving family, including her 95-year-old daughter and 69-year-old granddaughter, when she died on Tuesday.
Born on July 25, 1909, Francis witnessed an incredible span of history, living through 20 U.S. Presidents, starting with William Howard Taft. At the time of her passing, she was recognized as the third-oldest person in the world, according to LongeviQuest, a database dedicated to tracking the world’s oldest individuals.
“Ms. Elizabeth was a Houstonian icon and a cherished member of the community,” LongeviQuest stated in a heartfelt tribute to her life.
Throughout her 115 years, Francis experienced two world wars, two pandemics, and the rapid advancement of technology. She often credited her longevity to her strong faith in God and her commitment to eating fresh foods from her own garden.
In interviews, she shared that she never smoked or drank alcohol, and she was proud of her good health, stating that she didn’t need glasses and her hearing remained sharp.
Francis moved to Houston at the age of 11, along with her five siblings, after the death of their mother. The siblings were placed in different homes, and she was raised by her aunt. Elizabeth embraced her life in Houston, where she ran a local coffee shop and became an active member of her church community.
Ben Meyers, the CEO of LongeviQuest, highlighted the importance of family and community in Francis’s long life. “One thing that she really exemplifies is the support of family and community,” he remarked.
“She lived at home and was the oldest person in the world to do so. That’s extraordinary. She also had a strong community through her church, which played a significant role in her life.”
Francis’s legacy lives on through her family, which includes three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. Her remarkable journey and the deep connections she forged throughout her life serve as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of love, faith, and community.
