Recognized by the Guinness World Records, Itooka passed away in a nursing home in Ashiya, Japan, local authorities announced on Saturday. Her passing occurred on December 29, marking the end of a long life that began on May 23, 1908. A fan of bananas and Calpis, a popular yogurt-flavored drink in Japan, she embraced these delights throughout her storied years.
After the death of Maria Branyas at 117 last year, Itooka claimed the title of the oldest living person according to the Gerontology Research Group database. When informed of her position at the top of the world’s supercentenarians list, she modestly said, “thank you.”
Her last birthday was a festive celebration where she was gifted a bouquet of flowers, a cake, and a personal card from the city mayor. Born in Osaka and with a passion for volleyball since high school, Itooka remained lively until her final years, according to Nagata, as reported by Express US.
She even managed to conquer Mount Ontake, Japan’s second-highest volcano, twice, standing at 10,062 feet. At 20, she married and became the matriarch of four children: two sons and two daughters, as recorded in the Guinness records.
During World War II, she oversaw her husband’s textile business in an administrative role. After her husband’s death in 1979, she chose solitude in Nara and continued to lead a fulfilling life. She now leaves behind a legacy that includes a son, a daughter, and five grandchildren.
To commemorate her remarkable journey, a private memorial service was held with her closest loved ones, detailed Nagata. Following Itooka’s death, the Gerontology Research Group has named Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, aged 116, who was born just 16 days after Itooka, as the world’s oldest living person.