Elizabeth Francis, the oldest person in the U.S., passed away peacefully at the age of 115 in Houston. At the time of her death, she was the third-oldest person in the world, according to LongeviQuest, a database tracking the world’s oldest individuals.
Born on July 25, 1909, Francis lived through the administrations of 20 U.S. Presidents, starting with William Howard Taft. Although she was originally from Louisiana, she spent most of her life in Houston, Texas, where she resided with her 95-year-old daughter, Dorothy Williams, and her granddaughter, Ethel Harrison.
After losing her mother at the age of 11, Francis moved to Houston and was raised by her aunt. Despite never driving a car, she worked outside the home managing a coffee shop at a local TV station during the 1970s and 80s.
Ben Meyers, the CEO of LongeviQuest, emphasized the importance of family and community in Francis’s longevity. He praised her active involvement in her church, where she had been a member for many years. Meyers highlighted the significance of strong family ties and community support in achieving such an advanced age.
Francis, who previously credited her long life to her faith, had three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. She was described as an extraordinary example of living independently at an advanced age, surrounded by a caring community.
Throughout her life, Elizabeth Francis was a beloved figure in Houston, known for her resilience, faith, and commitment to her family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, perseverance, and the importance of cherished relationships in leading a long and fulfilling life.