Meet Naomi Whitehead: The Oldest American
Born on September 26, 1910, in rural Georgia, Naomi Whitehead has lived through some of the most significant periods of modern American history, including two world wars, the Great Depression, and the Civil Rights Movement. At 115 years old, she has earned the distinction of being the oldest documented person in the United States. Her status was officially recognized following the death of the previous record holder, Elizabeth Francis, in October 2024. Whitehead currently resides in a senior care community in Greenville, Pennsylvania, where she is celebrated for her incredible milestone.
Life on a Georgia Farm
Naomi Whitehead's early years were spent on a farm, an experience that shaped her strong work ethic and contributed to a physically active lifestyle. She has shared memories of her childhood, including picking cotton and tobacco, and has attributed her robust health partly to the physically demanding nature of her upbringing. Her life has been one of quiet resilience, overcoming personal losses and adapting to a rapidly changing world while maintaining a strong sense of faith.
What we know about her long life
According to reports, Whitehead credits her longevity to a combination of factors, including genetics, a healthy lifestyle, and her faith.
- Genetics: Longevity researchers often point to strong genetics within a family as a key predictor of a long life. While not much is public about her extended family's longevity, it is likely a contributing factor.
- Lifestyle: Whitehead has stated that she never drank alcohol or smoked, a common thread among many supercentenarians.
- Active Past: Her childhood spent on a farm meant she was engaged in strenuous physical labor, which helped keep her physically fit throughout her life.
- Faith: A person of deep faith, she has publicly stated that she will live as long as the Lord lets her, a perspective that may have provided her with comfort and a sense of peace throughout her long life.
The Science of Supercentenarians
Reaching the status of a supercentenarian—living past 110—is extremely rare. The Gerontology Research Group (GRG) is one of the leading organizations responsible for validating the ages of the world's oldest people. Researchers are intensely interested in these individuals because they possess a unique resilience that allows them to bypass or delay age-related diseases. Studies of supercentenarians focus on a combination of factors, comparing genetic predispositions with environmental influences to better understand the keys to exceptional longevity.
Longest-Lived American Comparison
While Naomi Whitehead is the oldest currently living American, the longest-lived American ever recorded is a different individual. A comparison highlights the rarity of extreme longevity.
| Feature | Naomi Whitehead (Oldest Currently Living) | Sarah Knauss (Longest-Lived American Ever) |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Date | September 26, 1910 | September 24, 1880 |
| Death Date | Still Living (as of Sept 2025) | December 30, 1999 |
| Age Reached | 115 (as of Sept 2025) | 119 years, 97 days |
| Birthplace | Georgia, U.S. | Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Place of Residence | Greenville, Pennsylvania | Hollywood, Pennsylvania |
Conclusion: A Remarkable Life and Continuing History
Naomi Whitehead's journey from a rural Georgia farm to becoming the oldest person in the US right now is a testament to the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Her life spans over a century, offering a living connection to a past that many can only read about. As the Gerontology Research Group continues to document and verify the ages of supercentenarians, each individual case provides valuable data in the scientific study of aging. While her age is a remarkable achievement, her story also reflects a life lived with purpose, guided by faith and a strong constitution. It is a reminder that while the secrets of longevity are complex, they often involve a blend of genetics, lifestyle choices, and a hopeful outlook on life.
How are supercentenarian records verified?
Verifying such claims involves meticulous record-checking by organizations like the Gerontology Research Group, who cross-reference official documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and census data. The process is essential to maintain the integrity of longevity records.
The oldest living American-born man
While Naomi Whitehead is the oldest American overall, the oldest American-born man is a separate title. That title is currently held by Edwin Martin, who celebrated his 110th birthday in February 2025.
The story of Elizabeth Francis
Naomi Whitehead became the oldest living American after the passing of Elizabeth Francis, a resident of Texas who died in October 2024 at the age of 115. Francis had been a well-known figure, sharing her own stories and advice for living a long life.
The world's oldest person compared to the US oldest
While Naomi Whitehead is the oldest living American, there are other supercentenarians worldwide who are older. The Gerontology Wiki maintains a list of the world's oldest living people, with Naomi Whitehead ranking third globally as of late September 2025.
Historical context of US oldest individuals
The title of 'oldest American' is a dynamic one, passed from one supercentenarian to another. The records kept by organizations like the Gerontology Research Group show a history of extraordinary individuals, highlighting that extreme longevity is a consistent, though rare, phenomenon in the United States. The longest-lived American ever, Sarah Knauss, lived to be 119, serving as a powerful benchmark for longevity.
The oldest person on Earth
Naomi Whitehead is not the oldest person in the world. As of late September 2025, that distinction belongs to Ethel Caterham of the United Kingdom, who turned 116 in August.
What are some common traits of supercentenarians?
Studies have shown that some common traits and lifestyle factors among supercentenarians include genetics, a healthy diet, regular (though not necessarily strenuous) physical activity, positive outlook, and strong social connections. They often come from families with a history of long life.
