The Remarkable Life of the World’s Oldest Woman, Who Lived Through Three Centuries

She said, ’What’s the point of being alive? I just sit here doing nothing.’’ And a few months later, South African Johanna Mazibuko passed away at the remarkable age of 128, making her what is believed to be the oldest woman in the world. Here is a look at her captivating journey that has spanned over three centuries.

She lived a peaceful life.

According to those close to her, Mazibuko had identification documents that confirmed her birth date as May 11, 1894. She grew up on a corn farm and never attended school. She was illiterate and unable to read or write.

Mazibuko was the oldest of 12 children, and three of her youngest siblings are still living. “We lived so well on the farms,” she said of her childhood in an interview. “I grew up healthy, eating mostly fresh milk and wild spinach. Now I eat modern food. I am used to it but I miss the food I grew up on.”

Some of her kids are still alive.

Although she couldn’t recall the exact date, Mazibuko married an older widower who owned cows and made butter with him. She had a joyful life with him and said, “He made sure I did not want for anything.” Together, they had seven children, two of whom are still alive today. Mazibuko has over 50 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She pondered the purpose of her existence.

A couple of weeks before she passed, Johanna was brought to a hospital and received treatment for a stroke. After staying there for two weeks, she was released only to pass away three days later at home. Just the previous year, on her 128th birthday, she expressed to an interviewer, “I am amazed at why I am still here after so many years. Why am I still here? People around me have been dying.” There is no doubt that Johanna Mazibuko had an extraordinary life and witnessed significant historical events. Her memory will undoubtedly endure through the numerous generations she left behind.

While we mourn the loss of Johanna Mazibuko, the extraordinary centenarian, we continue to share stories that celebrate the wonders of life. Join us in exploring the phenomenal journey of a woman who redefined societal expectations by having her first baby at the age of 70, reminding us all that it’s never too late to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.