World's oldest man has died just months before 115th birthday
The world's oldest man has sadly died aged 114.
Juan Vicente Perez Mora was a Venezuelan icon, living through both World Wars as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, but he sadly passed away last night (2 April).
The ex-farmer was crowned as the oldest man alive in May 2022, with the title being bestowed upon the then 112-year-old by none other than the Guinness Book of World Records, who recognised his long-life.
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Known as a supercenturian, as he was over the age of 110, Juan left behind a massive family of 11 kids, 41 grandchildren, 18 great-children and 12 great-great-grandchildren.
The oldest ever man recorded in history was 116-year-old Jiroemon Kimura, and the oldest living person right now is 117-year-old Maria Branyas, who lives in the US.
The governor of his home state Tachira in Venezuela, Freddy Bernal, confirmed his death last night.
He posted on X: “Our dear Juan Vicente Perez Mora, today with deep sadness and pain we say goodbye to you, to that archetype of a man from Tachira, humble, hard-working, peaceful, enthusiastic about family and tradition.
“Together with my wife and children we had the pleasure and the pride of meeting him and sharing with his loved ones," he concluded.
Juan was born on May 27, 1909 and foresaw key inventions such as the introduction of the TV, mobile phone and of course, the internet.
When he was just 51, he had his first ever ID picture taken in black and white during the 1960s.
His nickname 'Tio Juan' translates into English as Uncle Juan.
Governor Bernal also wrote: “My old Don Vicente, we will always remember him for his optimism in life, for faith, hope and that deep love for our state of Tachira.
"He will always be a symbol of goodness, wisdom and joy, which is why his legacy will live forever in our hearts and in our lives.
“Rest in peace my dear old man, my Don Juan Vicente. We will never forget you," he concluded.
The country's president Nicolas Maduro also spoke about the passing, stating: “Juan Vicente Perez Mora has transcended into eternity at 114 years old.
“From the town of El Cobre he gave Venezuela the Guinness Record for being the oldest man in the world.
“I send my hug and condolences to his family and to all the people of El Cobre, Tachira state. May God receive him in his holy glory!”
Juan's wife Ediofina del Rosario Garcia passed away in 1997, following 60 years of marriage.
The Guinness Book of World Records published a statement to mark his achievements.
They announced: “Juan Vicente has exceptional health and memory. He remembers his childhood, marriage, the name of his siblings, children and grandchildren.
"He loves to be surrounded by family and friends as they tell stories and engage in good conversation."
Topics: World News, News
Joshua Nair