America’s oldest person has passed away at the Shady Oaks Care Center in Lake City, Iowa, after sharing secret to her happy and amazingly long life.
Bessie Hendricks died at the age of 115. Born on November 7, 1907, she had been the fourth oldest person in the world.
According to reports, she grew up on a farm in Iowa and enjoyed riding horses before televisions existed.
In 1930, she tied the knot with her husband Paul Hendricks and they shared five children – Leon, Glenda, Roland, Joan and Shirley.
Mr. Hendricks passed away only one month before their 65th wedding anniversary in 1995.
Becoming a supercentenarian, reaching over 110 years old, is very rare. According to the 2010 census, there are only 300 supercentenarians recorded across the US.
Mrs. Hendricks previously shared the secret to her happy and long life.
Her family also told local media that she had sworn by hard work, avoiding things that caused too much stress but she didn’t miss out on eating delicious treats.
Mrs. Hendricks lived through two World Wars, 21 presidents, the Spanish influenza, the Great Depression, and also the coronavirus pandemic.
In 2019, a care center administrator said: “A strong will and love of family keep Bessie going. She appreciates life so much.”
Before her death, a Facebook group had been set up in honor of Mrs. Hendricks.
One fan wrote: “Rest in Peace Bessie Hendricks. My deepest condolences and sympathy to all her loved ones. She will be missed by all of us.”
Another said: “Unfortunately some bad news here everyone. Bessie Hendricks passed away yesterday. Sincere condolences to all her family and friends from everyone here at her fan page. Bessie reached an incredible age and was well loved by many. May she rest in peace.”
The title of the oldest living person in America has now been passed down to Edie Ceccarelli from California, who will celebrate his 115th birthday on February 5.
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