Naomi Whitehead, born Naomi Washington on September 26, 1910, in rural Georgia, USA, is an American supercentenarian recognized as the oldest living person in the United States since October 22, 2024, following the passing of Elizabeth Francis.
Growing up on a farm, Naomi assisted her family by picking cotton and tobacco alongside her siblings. In 1930, she married Sylvester Whitehead, and together they had three sons: Parrish L. (1933–2011), Elbert (1934–2006), and Sylvester Jr. (1931–2004). Her husband passed away in the 1980s, and she outlived all her children.
In 2011, following the death of her last surviving son, Naomi resided in Sharon, Pennsylvania. By her 110th birthday in 2020, she had become a supercentenarian, celebrating with her extensive family, which included 12 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 49 great-great-grandchildren, and three great-great-great-grandchildren.
Naomi attributes her longevity to good genetics—her father lived into his 90s—and a lifestyle devoid of smoking and alcohol consumption. She has expressed that she will “live as long as the Lord lets me.” Her hobbies include cooking, baking, drawing, listening to music, and storytelling, sharing tales that even her family had never heard before.
As of March 28, 2025, Naomi Whitehead is 114 years and 183 days old, residing at St. Paul’s Senior Living Community in Greenville, Pennsylvania. She holds the distinction of being the oldest validated living person in the United States and North America, and the seventh-oldest living person globally.
Her remarkable life and longevity have garnered recognition and admiration, serving as an inspiration to many.
