Oldest Man Attributes Longevity To Deep Connection With God
Juan Vicente Pérez Mora, who passed away in Venezuela this week, was recognized as the oldest man in the world, just weeks before his 115th birthday. His secret to longevity, as he shared with Guinness World Records in 2022, included hard work, early bedtime, and a daily glass of aguardiente, along with a devout commitment to his Catholic faith and the practice of praying the rosary twice daily.
Born on May 27, 1909, in El Cobre, Táchira, Venezuela, Mora’s life was marked by simplicity, hard work, and a deep love for his family and his religion. Despite receiving only five months of formal education due to circumstances, he taught himself to read and write using a book gifted by his ailing teacher. Throughout his life, Mora worked in agriculture and served as a sheriff in Caricuena from 1948 to 1958, settling disputes and contributing to his community.
Family held a central place in Mora’s heart. He was married to Ediofina del Rosario García for 60 years until her passing in 1997, and together they raised eleven children. Mora cherished his role as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life and radiating positivity and gratitude to those around him.
In the wake of his passing, tributes poured in from political leaders in Venezuela, recognizing Mora’s humility, hard work, and dedication to family and tradition. Governor Freddy Bernal and President Nicolás Maduro expressed condolences to Mora’s family and praised his optimism, faith, and love for his home state of Táchira.
Mora’s legacy will be remembered not only for his remarkable age but also for his unwavering commitment to his values, his unwavering faith, and his profound impact on those fortunate enough to have known him. As he wished to be remembered, Mora will be celebrated as a hardworking man, devoted to his family, his faith, and his community, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion that will endure for generations to come.