Virgilio Dávalos Rey, the oldest living person in Paraguay, passed away today in Coronel Oviedo on 28 February, at the age of 111 years, 143 days, according to ABC Color.
Virgilio Dávalos Rey was born in the rural town of Plácido, on the outskirts of Coronel Oviedo, Caaguazu Department, Paraguay, on 8 October 1914.
During the Chaco War (1932–1935), he served in various military roles, including logistics in the War Intendancy, naval inspections along the Pilcomayo River, and later in Infantry Regiment No. 10 “Sauce.” Illness forced him to leave the front, and the war left him partially deaf and with impaired vision. After recovering, he worked in the military quartermaster’s office, using his self-taught skills in writing and mathematics. He eventually returned to his home community, where he learned from his brother that the war had ended.
In September 1940, he married María Santa López Martínez, with whom he had six daughters. They shared 76 years of marriage until María Santa’s death in June 2017.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Virgilio Dávalos Rey during this difficult time
