In a heartfelt announcement, Ashiya's Mayor Ryosuke Takashima reflected on Ms. Itooka's profound impact, stating, "Ms. Itooka gave us courage and hope through her long life." Itooka was widely celebrated after being recognized as the world's oldest person when Spain's Maria Branyas Morera died at age 117 in August 2024.
Born in May 1908, Ms. Itooka witnessed monumental events, from both World Wars to significant technological advances. Her life was a testament to endurance. As a student, she actively participated in volleyball and even summited Japan’s Mount Ontake twice. She was fond of traditional Japanese treats, including bananas and Calpis.
At the age of 20, she married and raised two daughters and two sons while deftly managing her husband's textile factory during World War II. After losing her husband in 1979, she lived independently in Nara until her passing. She is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren, with a family-held funeral honoring her legacy.
Japan continues to recognize its elderly population, with over 95,000 centenarians, the vast majority being women. Following Itooka's death, Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, born shortly after her, is now recognized as the world's oldest living person. Amidst these statistics, the growing number of elderly in Japan prompts discussions about the nuances of aging and longevity.
