John Tinniswood, recognized as the world’s oldest living man, passed away in Southport, Merseyside, England, on 25 November 2024, at the age of 112 years, 91 days.
Tinniswood was born in Liverpool, Merseyside, England, UK, on 26 August 1912, to parents parents Ada and John Bernard Tinniswood. Due to problems with his eyesight, he was given an administrative role with Royal Army Pay Corps during the Second World War. In addition to accounting and auditing, his work involved logistical tasks such as locating stranded soldiers and organizing food supplies.
He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Blodwen Tinniswood, whom he met at a dance in Liverpool and married in 1942. He was widowed in 1986. Prior to his retirement in 1972, Tinniswood worked as an accountant for Shell and BP. He has been a lifelong fan of Liverpool FC.
His family described him as a man of many admirable qualities. He was intelligent, decisive, brave, and unflappable in a crisis. Gifted in mathematics and an engaging conversationalist, these traits served him well during his military service with the Royal Army Pay Corps in the Second World War and throughout his 43-year career in the UK energy sector.
Ben Hinchliffe (left) with John Tinniswood, in May 2024.
Following the passing of 108-year-old Harry Fransman on 25 September 2020, he became the oldest known living man in the UK.
On 2 April 2024, following the passing of 114-year-old Juan Vicente Pérez Mora of Venezuela, it was initially believed that John Tinniswood had become the world’s oldest living man. However, it was later discovered that two other men might have been older and alive at the time. Tinniswood succeeded Georges Thomas (19 November 1911 – 1 June 2024) of France, becoming the oldest living man in Europe.
Later that month, Chinese supercentenarian Shi Ping (1 November 1911 – 29 June 2024) passed away at the age of 112. Shi Ping was possibly the world’s oldest living man at the time, although his age is still under review. By July 2024, John Tinniswood was recognized as the oldest known living man in the world.
On 5 May 2024, our team had the honor of visiting him at his residence in Southport.
With Tinniswood’s passing, the title of the World’s Oldest Living Man now passes to João Marinho Neto, a resident of Apuiarés, Ceará, Brazil, born on 5 October 1912.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of John Tinniswood during this difficult time. His remarkable life and longevity were an inspiration to many, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him and those who admired his story.
