Kiyo Komatsu (小松きよ), the oldest resident of Saitama Prefecture, passed away on 10 March 2025, at the age of 114 years and 42 days.
Komatsu was born on 27 January 1911, in Kuroshima Village (now Wajima City), Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, as the eldest of five siblings and the daughter of a chief fisherman. In her late 20s, she married a man from her hometown and moved to Tokyo for his work. However, during World War II, she evacuated to her family’s home in Ishikawa Prefecture with her daughter. Tragically, her husband was killed in action. After spending several years in Ishikawa, she returned to Tokyo, where she raised her only daughter on her own.
Komatsu had a talent for sewing and occasionally helped with kimono-making upon request until around her 50s. Later in life, she dedicated herself to supporting her daughter’s family, continuing to help with household chores, shopping, and childcare well into her 80s. Until around the age of 107, she enjoyed annual trips to her hometown of Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture. Shopping in Tokyo’s Ginza district was also one of her greatest pleasures.
At the age of 109, she fractured her femur but, with strong determination for recovery and returning home, she regained her ability to climb stairs within just a few weeks of hospitalization and rehabilitation. Even at 114, she required little caregiving assistance, continued to walk independently, and regularly climbed the stairs to the second floor for bathing—all while living at home. Such a level of independence at her age was exceptionally rare. She maintained a high degree of self-sufficiency, eating three meals a day with her family, holding and using her own bowl and chopsticks.
Komatsu was known for her love of tomatoes and fondly remembered the excitement of trying one for the first time in her youth. She continued eating her favorite tomato every morning without fail. Although she took medication for blood pressure, she had no other chronic conditions or serious illnesses.
On 27 January 2025, LongeviQuest visited her home to celebrate her 114th birthday, presenting her with a bouquet of flowers and a commemorative plaque. Meeting her on this special occasion was an unforgettable experience filled with warmth and joy. Her strength and sense of humor undoubtedly inspired many people.
Until around 20 February 2025, Komatsu remained in good health. However, after catching a cold, she was unable to eat and gradually weakened due to natural causes. Even in her final days, she responded to her family’s calls and retained her characteristic warmth and dignity.
At the time of her passing, Komatsu ranked as the 5th-oldest living person in Japan and the 13th-oldest validated living person in the world, according the LongeviQuest’s rankings.
Komatsu’s remarkable longevity was a testament to her resilience and strong spirit. Her passing is deeply mourned, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family.
