The world’s oldest living person, Ethel Caterham, is celebrating her 116th birthday today, August 21, and received a special message from Guinness World Records.

Caterham, born on August 21, 1909, was officially recognized in April 2025 as the oldest living person after the passing of Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas at 116. She also holds the titles of oldest living woman and oldest person in the United Kingdom.

Now residing in a care home in Surrey, England, Caterham marked her milestone privately. Hallmark Luxury Care Homes released a statement on her behalf, saying:

“Ethel and her family are so grateful for all of the kind messages and interest shown to her as she celebrates her 116th birthday this year. Ethel has again chosen not to give any interviews, preferring to spend the day quietly with her family so that she can enjoy it at her own pace. The King may be her one concession, understandably! Thank you again for your kind wishes on this special day.”

Guinness World Records also joined in the celebration:

“Guinness World Records wishes Ethel Caterham a happy birthday! We honor her record-breaking life thus far and wish her the best as she turns 116.”

Caterham has often credited her longevity to maintaining peace of mind. In May, she told the Associated Press:

“Never arguing with anyone, I listen and I do what I like.”

In a 2011 interview with the Salisbury Journal, she shared another philosophy:

“Say yes to every opportunity because you never know what it will lead to. Have a positive mental attitude and have everything in moderation.”

Born in the Hampshire village of Shipton Bellinger as one of eight siblings, Caterham has a family history of longevity her sister Gladys Babilas lived to 104.

She married Norman Caterham in 1933, and though widowed in 1976, she built a long life surrounded by family. She outlived her two children, Gem and Anne, but is a grandmother of three and great-grandmother of five.