Naomi Whitehead turned 116 on September 26 and continues to be the oldest known living person in the United States. The American, who resides in Greenville, Pennsylvania, also holds the second place among the world's oldest people, only behind the British Ethel Caterham, who is 117 years old, according to the records of LongeviQuest and the Gerontology Research Group (GRG).
Born in Georgia in 1910, Whitehead spent part of her childhood on a family farm, where she helped with the cotton and tobacco harvest. In 1930, she married Sylvester Whitehead and had three children.
Her 116th birthday was celebrated in Greenville with a family gathering attended by between 80 and 90 people, including descendants from several generations. Two of her grandchildren organized the party, where relatives wore blue shirts with pictures of Whitehead and the number 116. The honoree also posed for photographs with her family members.
Over the years, Whitehead has attributed her longevity to some personal habits: she never smoked, rarely drank alcohol, and maintained a deep religious faith.
Her family also highlights the importance she has had for them. Her great-granddaughter Neely Whitehead told The Blackshear Times that Naomi "has always been the pillar of our family" and that when she thinks of her, she does so in terms of "honor, legacy, faith".
During the celebration, a great-niece also collected family memories and anecdotes. The meal included chicken, ham, green beans, macaroni and cheese, and other dishes prepared for the attendees.
Second oldest person in the world
Whitehead became the oldest known American in October 2024, following the death of Elizabeth Francis, who was 115 years old. Since February 2026, she holds the second position in the verified international longevity rankings, behind Ethel Caterham.
Specialized organizations verify these ages through historical documents such as birth certificates, censuses, and marriage records. Therefore, positions can change when a person included in the ranking passes away or a new case is documented.