World's Oldest Person María Branyas Passes Away at 117, Leaves Behind a Legacy of Wisdom
María Branyas, recognized as the world's oldest person and the eighth longest-living individual in recorded history, has passed away at the age of 117. Her family announced her death through their Twitter account, Super Àvia Catalana, stating that she died peacefully in her sleep, as she had wished. Just days before her passing, Branyas shared poignant reflections on life, expressing that she would soon leave behind the pleasures of coffee, yogurt, and the cherished memories associated with them. 'One day, I will leave here,' she said, 'this long journey will have ended. Death will find me worn out from having lived so much, but I want it to find me smiling, free, and satisfied.' Her family remarked that they would always remember her for her kindness and wise advice. Following her passing, Branyas was cremated in a private ceremony at the Municipal Cemetery of Olot in Girona. In a 2023 interview with La Vanguardia, Branyas attributed her longevity to a life of moderation and positivity. 'I have always eaten little, but everything; I never went on a diet,' she stated, revealing that yogurt was her 'heavenly manna.' She emphasized the importance of living without regrets and avoiding toxic relationships. Born on March 4, 1907, in San Francisco, California, to a journalist from Pamplona and a Catalan woman who emigrated to the United States, Branyas had an extraordinary life. With her passing, the title of the world's oldest person will now be held by Japanese citizen Tomiko Itooka, born on May 23, 1908. Branyas leaves behind a remarkable legacy and a reminder to embrace life with gratitude and joy.
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