The Oldest Living American, A Texan, Has Died

Elizabeth Francis, America’s oldest known person, passed away on October 22 at age 115. A resident of Houston, Texas, Francis was not only the oldest person in the United States but also one of the longest-lived individuals in American history.

A Life of Resilience and Faith

At the time of her death, she was recognized as the third-oldest person worldwide by LongeviQuest, an organization dedicated to tracking the world’s oldest individuals. Francis achieved her status as the oldest American in February following the passing of Edie Ceccarelli. Francis celebrated her milestone 115th birthday this past July, marking the occasion with a gathering of family and friends. Surrounded by loved ones, she enjoyed a large cake adorned with flowers and topped it off with vanilla ice cream—a sweet tribute to her long life.

Early Years and Life in Houston

Elizabeth Francis was born on July 25, 1909, in St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, although she never knew the specific town of her birth. After her mother died in 1920, the young Francis and her five siblings were separated and sent to different homes. She moved to Houston to live with her aunt and grew up next door to her sister, Bertha Johnson. The two sisters shared a uniquely close bond that spanned more than a century. Remarkably, before Johnson’s passing at age 106, they were documented as among the oldest living siblings in the world.

Francis became a mother in 1928 when she gave birth to her daughter, Dorothy Williams. Raising her daughter as a single mother, she operated a coffee shop in Houston, a role that allowed her to provide for her family and build connections in her community. She continued to run the coffee shop for nearly 20 years before retiring in 1975, ending a career marked by resilience and independence.

Secrets of Longevity

Francis attributed her long life to a few guiding principles: her faith in God, speaking her mind freely, and enjoying her favorite foods without restrictions. She never smoked and rarely drank, except for the occasional glass of wine. Her granddaughter, Ethel Harrison, who was also her primary caregiver, described Francis as a person who embraced life’s joys while staying true to her values. “If the Good Lord gave it to you, use it. Speak your mind, don’t hold your tongue,” Francis shared in an interview last year, offering simple yet profound advice. Her faith and openness became the cornerstones of her long, fulfilling life.

With Francis’s passing, Naomi Whitehead, born on September 26, 1910, now holds the title of America’s oldest living person. Francis leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and faith, inspiring generations to come.