HOUSTON, Texas- Elizabeth Francis, a Houston resident and the oldest living person in the United States, passed away on October 22, 2024, at the age of 115. Francis was recognized as the third-oldest person in the world at the time of her death. She spent the majority of her life in Houston, Texas, and was known as a beloved figure in her community.
Francis was born in Louisiana in 1909. Her life spanned numerous significant historical events, including two World Wars, the segregation era, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout her life, Francis often credited her longevity to her faith, expressing gratitude to the “Good Lord” for her years. Her life and long existence were always rooted in her belief in faith and love.
At the time of her passing, Francis was living with her 95-year-old daughter, Dorothy Williams. Her primary caregiver was her granddaughter, Ethel Harrison, who supported Francis in maintaining her residence until her final days. Francis’s dedication to her family was evident, and she was described as “America’s Grandmother” by those who knew her.
Francis’s age was validated by LongeviQuest, a database that tracks the world’s oldest people. According to the database, her age made her the 54th oldest person in recorded history and the 21st oldest American. The organization acknowledged Francis as a cherished member of both her local and broader communities.
In the past, Francis shared her life with a sister who also lived into her 100s, reaching 106 years before her passing in 2011. The longevity in Francis’s family was notable, and it became a source of inspiration for those around her. Her extended life provided a living link to the past, making her a witness to over a century of change and transformation.
Francis’s age and her status as a prominent figure in the community were acknowledged by officials and organization representatives. Ben Meyers, a spokesperson for LongeviQuest, expressed his condolences, mentioning the profound impact Francis had on all who knew her. Meyers highlighted Francis’s role as an icon and a significant figure, beloved by her family, friends, and the larger community.
