World’s oldest man dies aged 112 in England
John Tinniswood, an Englishman who survived two world wars, two global pandemics, and lived through the sinking of the Titanic, has passed away at the age of 112. His death was confirmed by Guinness World Records on Tuesday, months after he was recognised as the world’s oldest living man.
Tinniswood died on Monday at a care home in Southport, northwest England, surrounded by his family and “music and love,” according to a statement released by his relatives. His family praised his many qualities, describing him as “intelligent, decisive, brave, calm in any crisis, talented at maths, and a great conversationalist.”
Born in Liverpool in August 1912, the same year the Titanic sank, Tinniswood’s life spanned more than a century of historic events. He married his wife Blodwen in 1942, during the tumult of World War II, while serving in the Royal Army Pay Corps, which was responsible for managing finances and food supplies. The couple remained together until Blodwen’s death in 1986. Tinniswood is survived by a daughter, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
After the war, Tinniswood worked as an accountant in the oil industry before retiring at the age of 60. Despite his retirement, he continued to stay mentally sharp by keeping up with current events and managing his own finances—a lifestyle that may have contributed to his extraordinary longevity, according to Guinness World Records.
A lifelong fan of tradition, Tinniswood was known to enjoy a weekly serving of his favourite meal—battered fish and chips—on Fridays, though he did not adhere to any special diet. His daily habits and sharp mind made him a beloved figure to his family and community.
From the age of 100, Tinniswood received a birthday card every year from Queen Elizabeth II, who was 14 years younger than him. The Queen passed away in 2022, but Tinniswood’s ability to stay connected to his past and maintain his health remained remarkable.
When awarded the title of the world’s oldest man in April 2024, Tinniswood humbly credited his longevity to “just luck.” He often downplayed any secret to his long life, stating, “You either live long or you live short, and you can’t do much about it.”
John Tinniswood’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of resilience and wisdom lives on through his family and the generations who admired him.
