Jeralean Talley was born on May 23, 1899. That was 115 years ago — making her the oldest living person in the world, according to the Gerontology Research Group (GRG).
Before the Detroit-area resident was crowned with the distinction on Monday, the 116-year-old Gertrude Weaver held the record for five days — following the death of the 117-year-old Misao Okawa of Japan on April 1.
According to Robert Young, the GRG supercentenarians division director, two people over the age of 116 dying in one week hasn't ever happened before — and that closes the books on 1898.
It's possible that there are individuals older than Talley out there, but their ages haven't been verified by the GRG. Typical documentation required to ascertain claims includes original proof of birth and recent identification.
As for Talley, she feels pretty confident about her state of being.
"I feel good. I don't feel sick. I'm still trying to do the right thing is all," Talley said.
Thelma Holloway, Talley's 77-year-old daughter, describes her mother as generally being in good health. Despite her age, Talley still stays up late – usually until midnight – and doesn't have any pains. She eats and sleeps right, and even though she's no longer able to get around as she used to, Talley can still walk around the house.
Talley credits her long life as "coming from above," and has stayed active through the years by making quilts, sewing dresses and bowling (until she was 104!). She was also still mowing her own lawn until a few years ago and likes going fishing every year for her birthday.
"We go to a trout pound in Dexter. She really likes that," said Michael Kinloch, Talley's family friend from church.
When she's at home, she likes passing the time watching Wheel of Fortune and The Ellen DeGeneres Show, as well as listening to baseball on the radio. There's also two-year-old Armmell to keep his great-great grandmother busy.
Aisha Holloway, Armmell's mother and Thelma's daughter, said its amazing how someone almost 116 years old can still watch over a toddler, noting how stern Talley is with the boy even though she's generally very solemn and sweet.
Photo: Jessica Diamond | Flickr
