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John Alfred Tinniswood, recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest living man, passed away on Monday, November 25, 2024, at the age of 112. His family confirmed that he died peacefully at the Hollies Rest home in Southport, where he had spent the last decade of his life. Tinniswood became the oldest living man in April 2024, following the death of Venezuelan Juan Vicente Pérez Mora at 114.
His family described his final day as "surrounded by music and love." Born on August 26, 1912, the same year the Titanic sank, Tinniswood became the UK's oldest man in 2020. A lifelong Liverpool FC supporter, he witnessed nearly all of the club’s major achievements.
John Alfred Tinniswood's lifelong journey through history and family
John Alfred Tinniswood's remarkable life spanned both World Wars and numerous societal changes. Born to Ada and John Bernard Tinniswood in Liverpool, he married his wife, Blodwen, in 1942. The couple had one daughter, Susan, in 1943 and enjoyed 44 years together until Blodwen died in 1986.
He is survived by his daughter, four grandchildren—Annouchka, Marisa, Toby, and Rupert—and three great-grandchildren—Tabitha, Callum, and Nieve.
His family praised him as "intelligent, decisive, brave," and "a great conversationalist." They noted that these traits served him well during his military service in the Royal Army Pay Corps in World War II, where he managed logistics, located stranded soldiers, and organized food supplies, as per the Guinness World Records.
After the war, Tinniswood worked for the Royal Mail and later as an accountant for Shell and BP, retiring in 1972. Retirement marked a new chapter as he volunteered as a church elder at Blundellsands United Reformed Church, where he also delivered sermons.
He maintained an active lifestyle well into his later years. In a BBC interview in early April 2024, Tinniswood shared that he had "no idea why" he lived so long, attributing his longevity to "pure luck." He advised practicing moderation.
"If you do too much of anything, you’re going to suffer eventually," he shared.
John Alfred Tinniswood's status as the world’s oldest man brought him international attention. He was officially recognized by Guinness World Records in April 2024. At that time, Guinness adjudicator Megan Bruce visited him in Southport to present the certificate and learn about his life.
"Doesn’t make any difference to me... I accept it for what it is," he remarked.
For his 100th birthday in 2012, he began receiving annual cards from the monarch—first from Queen Elizabeth II, then King Charles III. His family thanked well-wishers worldwide, especially those who celebrated his milestones.
"He really appreciated these birthday greetings and other messages of support," they said.
The oldest man on record remains Jiroemon Kimura of Japan, who lived to 116 years and 54 days, passing away in 2013. The current oldest living person is Spain’s Maria Branyas Morera, aged 117.
Donations in John Alfred Tinniswood's memory can be made to Age UK or a charity of choice.
