Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas, celebrated as the world's oldest person, has passed away at the remarkable age of 116. Born on June 8, 1908, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Sister Inah dedicated her life to faith and community. She became a Catholic nun in her early twenties, embodying a spirit of kindness and compassion throughout her long life.
Her family fondly remembers her unique tradition of celebrating her birthday with a cake shaped like the stadium of her beloved football team, Sport Club Internacional, based in Porto Alegre. Renowned for her unwavering faith, Sister Inah attributed her longevity to divine guidance, stating, "He [God] is the secret to life."
The title of the world's oldest living person now transitions to Ethel Caterham, aged 115, from Surrey, England. Sister Inah's passing occurred at a home managed by the Teresian Sisters in Porto Alegre. According to her nephew, she had lived a healthy life until her body began to naturally decline, without any significant illness.
A passionate football enthusiast, Sister Inah celebrated her 116th birthday proudly wearing her team's scarf and had a collection of Internacional memorabilia, showcasing the depth of her devotion. Her football club expressed deep sorrow over her passing, highlighting the values of kindness and love that Sister Inah embodied throughout her life.
Sister Rita Fernandes Barbosa, a co-ordinator at her residence, shared that Sister Inah maintained good health for the majority of her life, only experiencing serious medical procedures later on. Despite some hearing and vision challenges towards the end, her family noted that she kept a disciplined and routine lifestyle, punctuated by daily prayer and gratitude.
Sister Inah's journey began at a religious boarding school at the age of 16, leading her to teach subjects like Portuguese and maths after returning to Brazil in 1930. Her disciplined approach to life was noted by Sister Rita, who emphasized her sociable nature and commitment to her duties. As her memory and spirit live on, Sister Inah's story remains a testament to the enduring power of faith and community engagement.
