The oldest man in the world dies weeks before his 115th birthday
Juan Vicente Pérez Mora, who held the title of the oldest man in the world according to Guinness World Records, passed away just weeks before his anticipated 115th birthday, the organization announced on Wednesday.
Pérez Mora's record as the oldest living man was relatively brief, with Guinness officially recognizing him on February 4, 2022, at the age of 112 years and 253 days, following the passing of Saturnino de la Fuente García. He held the distinction of being the fourth oldest validated living person globally and was reportedly the sole man alive born before 1911.
Crediting his exceptional longevity to a disciplined lifestyle, Pérez Mora emphasized the importance of hard work, adequate rest, early bedtime, daily consumption of aguardiente (a type of alcoholic beverage), and his steadfast faith. Describing himself as deeply religious, he shared with Guinness World Records his commitment to prayer, expressing his desire to be remembered as a diligent worker, devoted husband, and faithful follower of his religion.
Born on May 27, 1909, in Venezuela to Euquitio Pérez and Edelmira Mora, Pérez Mora lived in Táchira state until his passing. Governor Freddy Bernal mourned his loss, describing Pérez Mora as an embodiment of the Tachirense community—humble, hardworking, and deeply connected to family and tradition.
Married to Ediofina del Rosario García for 60 years, Pérez Mora leaves behind a legacy of family, including 11 children, 42 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. His life began in agriculture at age 5, with minimal formal education. Despite this, Pérez Mora learned to read and write and later served as sheriff in Caricuena, where he mediated land and family disputes for a decade.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro offered condolences on social media, honoring Pérez Mora's remarkable life and extending sympathies to his family and the people of El Cobre, Táchira state.
As the world mourns Pérez Mora's passing, the Gerontology Research Group is actively seeking his successor as the oldest living man. Japanese Gisaburō Sonobe and Brazilian Josias de Oliveira are contenders for the title, pending confirmation of their birth dates by the group.
