Notable individuals who lived to be 109 years old
Many people have lived to the advanced age of 109, a number that places them in the semi-supercentenarian category. Their long lives often span significant historical periods and are filled with remarkable experiences. While the list of people reaching this age is extensive, a few notable names have been documented for their unique contributions and fascinating stories.
Otis Clark: From Hollywood butler to Tulsa riot survivor
One of the most compelling stories belongs to Otis Clark (1903–2012), who lived to be 109 years old. Clark's life was a testament to resilience and survival. He was a Hollywood butler who survived the devastating Tulsa race riot of 1921. At the age of 18, he narrowly escaped the violence and went on to work for famous figures like Joan Crawford. His long life provided a vital link to a darker period of American history, and his testimony became an essential part of understanding the events of that time.
Ruth Bancroft: A long life dedicated to design
Another individual who lived to be 109 was American landscape and garden designer Ruth Bancroft (1908–2017). She founded the Ruth Bancroft Garden in Walnut Creek, California, renowned for its collection of water-conserving plants. Her enduring passion for horticulture continued throughout her life, and she remained an active figure in the gardening world for decades. Bancroft’s story demonstrates how a lifelong passion can fuel a vibrant and lengthy existence.
James Clayton Flowers: A Tuskegee Airman
James Clayton Flowers, an American military pilot and Tuskegee Airman, was still living at 109 years old as of September 2025. The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of African American military pilots and airmen who fought in World War II and were instrumental in challenging segregation in the military. Flowers's life is a powerful narrative of service and historic change, and his reaching this rare milestone is a fitting tribute to his legacy.
Vincent Dransfield: Still driving at 109
Vincent Dransfield, who celebrated his 109th birthday in 2023, garnered media attention for his incredible vitality and independence. A resident of Little Falls, New Jersey, Dransfield still drove his car daily and lived independently in his own home. He credited his longevity to a variety of factors, including his active lifestyle and positive outlook. His story highlights how maintaining physical and mental activity can contribute to a long and healthy life.
Daisy Rhem: Kindness and healthy habits
Daisy Rhem, an African American woman from Maryland, was also a 109-year-old centenarian. Born in South Carolina in 1916, she celebrated her birthday in 2025 and attributed her long life to kindness, healthy habits, and faith. Rhem's perspective offers a simple, yet profound, insight into what it takes to live well for a very long time.
Comparison of notable 109-year-old lives
| Attribute | Otis Clark | Ruth Bancroft | James Clayton Flowers | Vincent Dransfield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Era | Early 20th century to 2012 | Early 20th century to 2017 | Active into the 21st century | Active in the 21st century |
| Notability | Hollywood butler, Tulsa riot survivor | Landscape and garden designer | Tuskegee Airman | Active and independent centenarian |
| Location | Lived and worked in Hollywood | Founded and managed garden in California | Served in U.S. military | Independent in New Jersey |
| Known Longevity Factors | Resilience and survival | Lifelong passion for horticulture | Service and discipline | Active lifestyle and positive outlook |
The context of living to 109
Reaching the age of 109 is incredibly rare, with statistics showing that only a small fraction of centenarians become semi-supercentenarians (those living past 105). This makes the lives and stories of these individuals all the more remarkable. For many, their longevity can be attributed to a combination of genetic factors, healthy lifestyle choices, and a strong sense of purpose. Some, like Evangelene Vani Paradus, who celebrated her 109th birthday in 2025, credit their longevity to giving back to the community and volunteering.
Interestingly, the reasons cited for a long life vary widely, from diet and exercise to a positive mental attitude. While there is no single 'secret' to longevity, the lives of these individuals offer fascinating insights into the human capacity for endurance and purpose. The growing number of verified centenarians and semi-supercentenarians across the globe is a testament to advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and overall living standards.
The legacy of semi-supercentenarians
The stories of those who live to 109 and beyond often leave a lasting impression. They provide us with a glimpse into different eras, offering historical context through personal narratives. Whether through direct accounts or recorded legacies, their experiences serve as a bridge between generations. Their lives remind us that age is not just a number, but a measure of experience and accumulated wisdom.
Conclusion
The individuals who lived to be 109 years old came from a wide variety of backgrounds and professions. From survivors of historic atrocities like Otis Clark to creators of lasting beauty like Ruth Bancroft, their stories are as diverse as their lives were long. Their longevity is often the result of a complex interplay of genetics, lifestyle, and mindset. While their reasons for reaching this age differ, they all share the common thread of having lived extraordinary, long lives that offer valuable lessons about resilience, purpose, and the human spirit.
Key takeaways
- Otis Clark was a Hollywood butler and Tulsa riot survivor: He lived from 1903 to 2012 and provided a direct link to a significant, dark period of American history.
- Ruth Bancroft was a notable landscape designer: She lived to 109 (1908–2017) and was known for founding the Ruth Bancroft Garden, demonstrating a lifelong passion for horticulture.
- James Clayton Flowers was a Tuskegee Airman: A military pilot and member of the historic Tuskegee Airmen, he was documented as living to 109 as of 2025.
- Vincent Dransfield maintained strong independence: A New Jersey resident, he was known for his independent lifestyle, including driving and managing his own home at 109.
- Daisy Rhem credited kindness and faith: This Maryland native attributed her longevity to positive and healthy habits, highlighting the importance of attitude.
- Longevity is influenced by diverse factors: While genetics play a role, the long lives of semi-supercentenarians are often attributed to a mix of lifestyle, mindset, and social engagement.
- These individuals offer historical perspectives: Their long lifespans provide valuable firsthand accounts and legacies that span multiple generations and major historical events.
