Ethel Caterham, World's Oldest Person, Celebrates 116th Birthday in Surrey

Ethel Caterham, recognized as the world's oldest living person, celebrated her 116th birthday on Thursday at her care home in Lightwater, Surrey. Born on August 21, 1909, in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, Caterham has lived through significant historical events, including both World Wars and the reigns of six British monarchs.

A spokesperson for Hallmark Care Homes stated that Caterham chose to spend her birthday "quietly with her family" to enjoy the day "at her own pace." While she declined media interviews, the spokesperson noted that a conversation with King Charles III "may be her one concession, understandably."

Caterham's longevity has been attributed to her positive outlook and approach to life. She has previously shared her philosophy: "Never arguing with anyone! I listen and I do what I like."

Throughout her life, Caterham has experienced numerous milestones. She moved to India at 18 to work as a nanny, met her future husband, Major Norman Caterham, in 1931, and married him in 1933 at Salisbury Cathedral. The couple lived in Hong Kong and Gibraltar before settling in Surrey, where they raised two daughters.

Caterham has outlived her husband, who passed away in 1976, and both of her daughters. She has three granddaughters and five great-grandchildren. Notably, she survived a bout of COVID-19 at the age of 110 in 2020.

As she marks her 116th birthday, Caterham remains the last surviving subject of King Edward VII and continues to inspire with her resilience and positive attitude.