John Alfred Tinniswood, who held the title of the world's oldest man for nearly nine months, has died at the age of 112.
Tinniswood passed away Monday in a care home near Liverpool, the city where he was born on August 26, 1912, according to a statement from his family.
Tinniswood often credited his remarkable longevity to "pure luck." Reflecting on his life after earning the Guinness World Records title in April, he remarked, "You either live long, or you live short, and you can't do much about it."
The retired accountant and great-grandfather led a life marked by moderation. He avoided smoking, rarely drank, and adhered to no particular diet—except for his weekly ritual of fish and chips every Friday.
"If you drink too much or you eat too much or you walk too much—if you do too much of anything—you're going to suffer eventually," Tinniswood once said, emphasizing balance as the key to a healthy life.
Newsweek reached out to Guinness World Records for comment via email.
Witness to History
Born just months after the Titanic sank, Tinniswood lived through two world wars and served in the British Army Pay Corps during World War II.
He became the world's oldest man at 111 following the death of Juan Vicente Pérez of Venezuela, who was 114.
Despite his advanced age, Tinniswood remained remarkably pragmatic. When he turned 112 in August, he dismissed the milestone, saying, "I don't feel that age; I don't get excited over it. That's probably why I've reached it."
Family and Legacy
Tinniswood is survived by his daughter Susan, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
His wife of 44 years, Blodwen, passed away in 1986. His family described him as a source of inspiration and resilience throughout his long life.
Those close to him say his wisdom and wit left an enduring impression on everyone he met. Simple joys defined his character.
The World's Oldest Living Person
While Tinniswood's passing leaves a void in the record books, Guinness World Records has yet to announce his successor. The world's oldest living woman and oldest living person remains Tomiko Itooka of Japan, who is 116 years old.
She gained the title of oldest living person in August 2024 after her predecessor, Maria Branyas, died at the age of 117. Itooka, a mother of four, was born on May 8, 1908, and resides in a nursing home in the town of Ashiya, Japan.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
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