World’s Believed Oldest Man, Jose Paulino Gomes from Brazil, passes away at 127

Brazil: Jose Paulino Gomes, a Brazilian man believed to be the world’s oldest living individual, has died at the remarkable age of 127. The news of Mr. Gomes’ passing was reported by the New York Post. He passed away at his residence in Pedra Bonita, located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, just one week before his anticipated 128th birthday.

According to Mr. Gomes’ family, he succumbed to organ failure, likely attributed to his advanced age. He was laid to rest on Saturday at the Corrego dos Fialhos Cemetery in Pedra Bonita, where his family and community bid a fond farewell to the centenarian.

Jose Paulino Gomes was born on August 4, 1895, as recorded on his marriage certificate from 1917. This extraordinary lifespan made him a survivor of both World Wars and three pandemics, a testament to his resilience throughout history.

While there were initial doubts about his age due to potential inaccuracies in historical documentation, Willyan Jose Rodrigues de Souza, a legal adviser for the civil registry, confirmed that Mr. Gomes’ age was indeed accurate. However, the family had sought confirmation, and local records were consulted to verify his remarkable age.

Eliane Ferreira, Mr. Gomes’ granddaughter, shared insights into his life, describing him as a humble and simple man who preferred natural and rural living over industrialized conveniences.

Guinness World Records has not yet indicated whether they will review his paperwork for official recognition. As per current records, the oldest living person is Maria Branyas Morer, 116, born on March 4, 1907, while the world’s oldest living man is Venezuela’s Juan Vicente Perez Mora, 114, according to Guinness World Records.

Jose Paulino Gomes is survived by an extensive and loving family, including seven children, 25 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren.