Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas, the World's Oldest Person, Passes Away at 116

Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas, a nun revered for her rich legacy and vibrant spirit, has passed away at the remarkable age of 116, leaving a legacy of faith, kindness, and sportsmanship.

Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas, who held the title of the world's oldest person, died recently at the age of 116 in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Born on June 8, 1908, in Rio Grande do Sul, Sister Inah dedicated her life to the Catholic faith from her early 20s and cherished her beloved football club, Sport Club Internacional. Her family shared that she celebrated her birthdays with cakes designed as the stadium of her favorite team.

The Brazilian nun, who was blessed by Pope Francis in 2018, attributed her longevity to her faith, stating, "he [God] is the secret to life." Her passing marks a transition of the title of oldest living person to 115-year-old Ethel Caterham from Surrey, England. Inah's nephew noted her lack of illnesses throughout her life, with her body gradually deteriorating leading up to her death at a Teresian Sisters’ home.

Known for her passion for football, Sister Inah celebrated her last birthday wearing her team's scarf and was fond of wearing Internacional shirts, even having a collection of pillows adorned with its logo. Sport Club Internacional expressed their condolences on social media, acknowledging her life rooted in kindness, faith, and camaraderie with the club.

During her time at the religious home, Sister Rita Fernandes Barbosa revealed that Sister Inah maintained good health for most of her life, only needing cataract surgery at age 106. Although her hearing and vision declined towards the end, she adhered to a disciplined daily routine. Family members emphasized her good-natured disposition, with fellow nun Sister Terezinha Aragon remarking on her gratitude and lack of complaints.

Sister Inah began her religious journey at 16 in a boarding school and later moved to Montevideo, returning to Brazil in 1930 to teach Portuguese and math. Sister Rita credited her remarkable lifespan to discipline, stating that Inah led a life characterized by hard work and sociability. Her legacy leaves a remarkable imprint on both her community and the sports world she cherished.