Elizabeth Francis, a Texas native, has recently achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the oldest living person in the United States at the age of 114 years and 218 days.
According to LongeviQuest, an organization that tracks human lifespans worldwide, Francis is now the fifth oldest living person globally.
Born on July 25, 1909, in Louisiana, she has surpassed significant historical events, including two World Wars, the Spanish Flu, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite her age, Francis remains vibrant and shares her secrets for a long, happy life.
Francis’s granddaughter, Ethel Harrison, revealed that her grandmother’s philosophy is simple yet profound:
“If the good Lord gave it to you, use it! Speak your mind, don’t hold your tongue!”
Known for her jovial nature, Francis humorously admits to eating whatever she wants, indicating a carefree approach to life’s pleasures.
Throughout her remarkable journey, Francis has upheld her faith in God as a source of strength. Raised by an aunt in Houston after the passing of her parents, she became a single mother in 1928.
Despite the challenges, she worked diligently for approximately 20 years at a coffee shop at ABC 13 News in Houston until her retirement in 1975.
Even in her later years, Francis remained active, enjoying regular walks until she transitioned to using a wheelchair at the age of 108.
Family holds a significant place in Francis’s heart, with longevity running in her lineage. Her sister, Bertha Johnson, lived to the age of 106, establishing them as one of the oldest pairs of siblings globally.
Francis, who has one daughter, three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren, cherishes her family’s presence and the memories they share.
Last July, Francis celebrated her 114th birthday surrounded by loved ones, including her 94-year-old daughter, Dorothy Williams.
The event was a testament to Francis’s enduring spirit and the profound impact she has had on multiple generations.
As she continues to inspire with her resilience and wisdom, Elizabeth Francis stands as a beacon of hope and a symbol of the enduring power of the human spirit.
