From the ghosts of Jim Crow to America’s first Black President, Susannah Mushatt Jones experienced moments that can only be recounted in History books. At the tender age of 116, she held the Guinness World Records title of world’s oldest person. The Alabama native was born July 6, 1899 and died in her sleep on last Thursday.

In addition to a good night’s rest, Jones attributed her longevity to living a good life. “I never drink or smoke. I surround myself with love and positive energy. That’s the key to long life and happiness,” Jones told the New York Housing Authority in 2005.

She left the South in 1922 eventually landing in New York City within a year. Jones worked as a housekeeper and nanny. Even with her low wages, she managed to help fund a college education for her first three nieces.

Jones was preceded in death by her parents and 10 siblings. Her legacy continues on with 100 living nieces and nephews. Emma Morano of Italy was born on November 29, 1899 and is now credited with being the world’s oldest person. The oldest man is Israel Kristal. He’s 112 living in Israel.

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Susannah Mushatt Jones

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