María Teresa Madrid, a resident of Puerto Berrío, Antioquia Department, Colombia, passed away on 11 June, at the age of 111 years, 54 days. She was the oldest (documented) living woman in Colombia.
Madrid was born in San Rafael, Antioquia Department, on 18 April 1914. She dedicated her life to education, working as a primary school teacher. Beyond the standard curriculum, she also taught embroidery to young girls, a practice she continued until the age of 109. She played an important role in the upbringing and education of many of her nieces and nephews. While she had no children of her own, her siblings had large families—some with more than ten children—resulting in a vast extended family.
Throughout her life, Madrid lived in various towns across Antioquia, including San Rafael, Girardota, Medellín, and Barbosa. She had a passion for travel and visited countries such as India, several in Europe, and the United States. In Medellín, she was actively involved in her community—as a dance teacher and a member of a local swimming league. An avid painter, she continued creating artwork well into her 100s, painting until the age of 106.
At the time of her passing, she was the oldest living woman in Colombia whose age has been validated.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of María Teresa Madrid during this difficult time.
