King Charles Celebrates 116th Birthday with Ethel Caterham

The world’s oldest person, Ethel Caterham, celebrated her remarkable 116th birthday with a visit from King Charles III on Saturday. The royal meeting took place in Surrey, where Caterham has resided for more than 50 years. Last year, the King sent her a congratulatory letter in honor of her milestone birthday, making this visit a special occasion.

A Joyous Meeting with Royalty

Dressed in ornate green slippers and a pink shawl, Caterham appeared vibrant and cheerful during her encounter with the monarch. Reflecting on a past event, she mentioned, “All the girls were in love with you,” referring to the King’s investiture as Prince of Wales at Caernarfon Castle in the 1960s. In response, King Charles, known for his self-deprecating humor, replied, “Yes, well, all that’s left of him anyway.” Laughter filled the room when one of Caterham’s granddaughters noted that this was a line her grandmother had used before.

The conversation also touched upon a memorable garden party at Buckingham Palace that Caterham attended decades ago. Reflecting on her long life, she shared her secret to longevity: “never arguing with anyone, I listen and I do what I like.”

A Life Rich in Experience

Caterham became the world’s oldest person following the passing of Sister Inah Canabarro of Brazil on April 30, 2023. She has outlived her husband, Norman, and both of her daughters, Gem and Anne. Born on August 21, 1909, she has witnessed significant global events, including the sinking of the Titanic and the Covid-19 pandemic. Her life journey has taken her through various countries, including India, Hong Kong, and Gibraltar, before settling in Surrey.

Currently residing in a local care home, Caterham expressed gratitude for her life experiences. In an interview with BBC Radio Surrey last year, she remarked, “I’ve been all over the world and I’ve ended up in this lovely home, where everyone is falling over themselves for me, giving me everything I want.”

During her recent birthday celebration, Caterham was surrounded by family, including three granddaughters and five great-granddaughters. Earlier this year, she also received a heartfelt birthday message from Brazil’s João Marinho Neto, the world’s oldest man at age 112. He honored her with a photo holding a sign that read “Ethel Feliz Aniversário,” which translates to “Happy Birthday Ethel” in Portuguese. This exchange is believed to be the only known interaction between the oldest man and woman in recorded history.

Caterham’s vitality and positive outlook continue to inspire many, making her a remarkable figure not just for her age, but for the wisdom and joy she shares with those around her.