John Alfred Tinniswood, who briefly held the title of the world’s oldest man, passed away on Monday in a care home in northwest England, near his birthplace of Liverpool.
His family announced that he d!ed just a few days after marking his impressive 112th birthday.
Born on August 26, 1912, Tinniswood lived through remarkable historical events, including two world wars and the sinking of the Titanic, which occurred just months before his birth.
He attributed his longevity to “pure luck,” remarking, “You either live long or you live short, and you can’t do much about it.”
When he was recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest man in the world last April, Tinniswood suggested that moderation was crucial to a healthy life.
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He refrained from smoking, drank only occasionally, and maintained a simple diet, which included enjoying fish and chips every Friday. “If you drink too much or eat too much or walk too much — if you do too much of anything — you’re going to suffer eventually,” he noted.
Tinniswood was 111 when he claimed the record after the previous holder, Venezuela’s Juan Vicente Pérez, passed away at age 114. As of now, Guinness World Records has yet to announce who will take on the title following Tinniswood’s passing.
He is survived by his daughter Susan, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. His beloved wife of 44 years, Blodwen, preceded him in death in 1986.
Upon celebrating his 112th birthday, Tinniswood reflected on his age with a sense of calm, stating, “I don’t feel that age; I don’t get excited over it. That’s probably why I’ve reached it.”
At the time of his passing, the title of the world’s oldest living person was held by 116-year-old Tomiko Itooka from Japan.