The world's oldest living person marked her 117th birthday last week, sharing insights into the philosophy that has carried her through more than a century of life.
Ethel Caterham, officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest person alive, celebrated the milestone on Friday, August 21. Born in the United Kingdom in 1909 during the reign of King Edward VII, the great-great grandfather of King Charles III, Caterham has witnessed more than a century of global transformation.
The seventh of eight children, Caterham credits her extraordinary longevity to a deliberate approach to interpersonal relationships. She maintains a "nonconfrontational" attitude, choosing to avoid arguments while refusing to compromise her core values.
"Thank you for all of the kind birthday wishes," Caterham told ABC News in an emailed statement. "Even at 117, I've had many firsts this year, from stroking a llama to holding hands with the King! I've had a lovely day celebrating with my family and friends, and I look forward to seeing what next year brings!"
Her reference to meeting the King stems from a September 2025 encounter with King Charles III, an experience that came more than a century after she was born during his ancestor's reign.
Caterham's life has been marked by both adventure and loss. In her younger years, she worked as a nanny for a British family stationed in India, a position that afforded her three years to explore the subcontinent. During that time, she met her husband Norman, a major in the British Army.
She has outlived Norman by 50 years and has also survived both of her daughters. Today, she remains surrounded by family, including three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren who provide her with care and companionship.
Caterham assumed the title of world's oldest person following the death of Inah Canabarro Lucas, a Brazilian nun who passed away at age 116.
Her simple philosophy—maintaining peace without sacrificing principles—offers a timeless lesson in navigating relationships and challenges across the decades. As she looks ahead to her 118th year, Caterham continues to embrace new experiences with the same curiosity that once led her across continents.
