On February 5, 2024, Edith Edie Ceccarelli turned 116 years old, making her the second-oldest person in the world behind the oldest person in the United States. Edie is a native of Willits, California, and has lived there her entire life.

A Town s Tradition

Every year, the entire community of Willits joins together for a special parade held in honor of Edie’s birthday. Local leaders, bands, dogs, fire engines, garbage trucks, and cars decked out in balloons and streamers all participate in the parade. Happy birthday! is shouted by neighbors as Edie, wearing a red sweater and lipstick to match, watches from her porch.

When Edie turned 100 in 2008, she planned a lavish celebration in a nearby events hall, which marked the start of the tradition. Since then, the town has organized the celebrations, making it a public occasion that brings joy to the entire neighborhood.

A Long and Happy Life

Edie was born Edith Recagno in 1908, the year Henry Ford unveiled the Model T. She has seen many historical developments and occasions. She outlived her seven siblings, being the oldest. She was twice married: to Fred Ceccarelli, who died in 1985, and to John Keenan, who died in 1963. Despite not having children, she welcomes many family members and guests to her home on a daily basis.

Edie puts her extraordinary longevity down to taking care of herself and drinking a little red wine. She enjoys cooking, dancing, dressing up, and going for walks. She fights dementia, yet occasionally she has humor and clarity.

A Rare Distinction

As one of the few people in the world to have lived to be 116 years old, Edie is referred to as a supercentenarian. As of February 2024, there were only 31 living supercentenarians, according to the Gerontology Research Group, which confirms the ages of the world’s oldest people. The only individual older than Edie is 117-year-old Maria Branyas Morera from Spain.

Because of Edie’s extraordinary longevity and age, scientists and media sources have been examining her genetic makeup and recording interviews with her. Many well-wishers from all around the world send her cards and letters wishing her a happy birthday and expressing their respect.

Many find inspiration in Edie, a living legend with almost a century of adventures. She is showered with love and appreciation from her community and beyond as she marks another year of her life. Edie, happy birthday!

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