Meet Naomi Whitehead: The Oldest Living Woman in the US
As of September 2025, the oldest living woman in the United States is Naomi Whitehead. Born on September 26, 1910, in Georgia, she has lived a remarkable life that spans nearly 115 years. Currently residing in a senior care community in Greenville, Pennsylvania, Mrs. Whitehead's life story is one of resilience and simplicity.
Born Naomi Washington on a farm, her early life involved helping her family by picking cotton and tobacco. She married her husband, Sylvester Whitehead, in 1930 and together they had three sons. Throughout her long life, she has outlived her husband and all three of her children. Those who know her attribute her incredible longevity to good genes and a life filled with activities she enjoys, such as cooking, baking, and listening to music. Notably, she has stated that she never smoked or drank alcohol.
The Path to Becoming the Oldest American
The title of the oldest living person in the US is a fluid one, passed on as these incredible individuals reach the end of their long lives. Naomi Whitehead inherited this distinction following the passing of a few other notable supercentenarians.
- Edie Ceccarelli: Prior to her death on February 22, 2024, at the age of 116, California resident Edie Ceccarelli was the oldest living American. Known for her love of dancing and social nature, she was a beloved figure in her town of Willits.
- Elizabeth Francis: Upon Ceccarelli's passing, the title moved to Elizabeth Francis of Houston, Texas. Born in 1909, Ms. Francis lived to be 115 before she passed away on October 22, 2024. Her family noted her sharp mind and credited her long life to eating whatever she wanted, including homegrown vegetables, and her strong faith.
Following the death of Elizabeth Francis, Naomi Whitehead became the nation's oldest living person.
What Are the Secrets to Longevity?
While genetics play a significant role in extreme longevity, researchers and the supercentenarians themselves often point to several key lifestyle factors. Examining the lives of Naomi Whitehead, Elizabeth Francis, and others reveals common themes.
- A Simple, Healthy Diet: Many supercentenarians report a diet low in processed foods. Mrs. Whitehead grew up on a farm, and Mrs. Francis was known for growing her own vegetables and avoiding fast-food restaurants.
- Physical Activity: An active lifestyle is a consistent trait. For Mrs. Francis, this meant a lot of walking as she never learned to drive. For Mrs. Whitehead, it was the physical work on the farm in her youth.
- Abstinence from Harmful Habits: Both Naomi Whitehead and Elizabeth Francis were non-smokers and did not drink alcohol.
- Strong Social Connections & Positive Mindset: A good attitude and strong community ties are often cited. Edie Ceccarelli was famously social, and Naomi Whitehead is described as enjoying various activities and approaching life with the philosophy, “I'll live as long as the Lord lets me.”
Comparison of Recent US Supercentenarians
| Feature | Naomi Whitehead | Elizabeth Francis | Edie Ceccarelli |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born | September 26, 1910 | July 25, 1909 | February 5, 1908 |
| Status | Living | Died October 22, 2024 | Died February 22, 2024 |
| Final Age | 114 (as of Sept 2025) | 115 years, 89 days | 116 years, 17 days |
| State of Residence | Pennsylvania | Texas | California |
| Noteworthy Fact | Never smoked or drank alcohol. | Grew her own vegetables and avoided fast food. | Was an avid dancer well into her 100s. |
The Science of Supercentenarians
A supercentenarian is a person who has reached the age of 110. Reaching this milestone is a rare phenomenon, and validating these claims is a rigorous process undertaken by organizations like the Gerontology Research Group (GRG). The GRG maintains a database of the world's oldest people, confirming ages through official documents like birth certificates.
Studies on these individuals suggest that while a healthy lifestyle can help a person reach their 90s, reaching 110 and beyond seems to require a beneficial genetic component. These “longevity genes” may help protect against age-related diseases. However, lifestyle choices remain critical, as very few supercentenarians lived lives of excess.
Conclusion: Lessons from a Long Life
The life of Naomi Whitehead, and those who held the title before her, offers a fascinating glimpse into the possibilities of human aging. While we may not all have the genetic lottery ticket to live to 115, their stories provide timeless wisdom: stay active, eat well, remain connected to others, and maintain a positive outlook on life. As we celebrate Mrs. Whitehead's incredible journey, we are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the simple habits that can lead to a long and healthy life.
