Elizabeth Francis, recognized as the oldest living person in the United States, has died at the age of 115. She passed away peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by family. Her granddaughter, Ethel Harrison, who was her primary caregiver, shared the news with ABC News. At the time of her death, Francis was not only the oldest in the U.S. but also the third-oldest person in the world, as noted by LongeviQuest, a global database of the oldest individuals. Most of her life was spent in Houston, Texas.
In her remarks to ABC News, Ethel Harrison described her grandmother as “a person who loved people.” Harrison highlighted Francis’s strong faith and cheerful demeanor, often checking in on others with a friendly “how you doing?” Francis’s guiding principle was simple: “treat people like you want to be treated.”
Ben Meyers, a spokesperson for LongeviQuest, referred to Francis as “America’s Grandmother.” He acknowledged her life filled with faith and love, stating that she credited God for her long life and was cherished by her family and community. Meyers extended prayers to her daughter, Dorothy Williams, who lived with Francis until her passing, and to Ethel Harrison for her devoted care.
Elizabeth Francis was born on July 25, 1909, in Louisiana. Throughout her life, she experienced significant historical events, including World War I, the sinking of the Titanic, and the Great Depression. She raised her daughter as a single mother, managed a coffee shop in Houston, and preferred walking to driving. Over her lifetime, she witnessed the first transatlantic flight and the presidencies of 20 leaders, from William Howard Taft to Joe Biden.
On her 115th birthday, Francis shared a piece of wisdom for a long and happy life: “Speak your mind and don’t hold your tongue.”
Earlier this year, Francis was officially recognized as the oldest living person in the U.S. after Edie Ceccarelli, the previous record holder, passed away shortly after her 116th birthday. In April, LongeviQuest awarded Francis a plaque acknowledging her status as the oldest person in the country.
Following her death, Naomi Whitehead, born on September 26, 1910, is now recognized as America’s oldest living person, according to LongeviQuest.
