GREENVILLE, Pa. — A woman from Pennsylvania, aged 114, is now recognized as the oldest living person in North America.
Naomi Whitehead, who resides in a senior living facility in Greenville West Salem, has earned this distinction following the passing of Texas resident Elizabeth Francis on October 22.
Born in September 1910 on a farm in Georgia, Whitehead attributes her remarkable longevity to a combination of good genetics and an active lifestyle that includes activities like cooking, baking, drawing, and enjoying music.
Throughout her life, she has remained smoke-free and has never consumed alcohol. Tragically, she has outlived her beloved husband and their three sons.
In a conversation with the New Castle News in September 2023, Whitehead shared that she doesn’t have a specific target for how long she hopes to live; she remarked, “I’ll live as long as the Lord lets me.”
Her positive outlook and engaging hobbies seem to contribute to her well-being, reflecting on a life filled with rich experiences.