BIOGRAPHY

Joaquim Valente was born in Quinta de Gonçalo Martins (Marmeleiro), Guarda District, Portugal, on 30 January 1911. Despite never learning to read or write, he supported his family as a seed trader, dealing in potatoes, rye, and corn. He recalled working the land and guarding sheep during his childhood, following his father’s early death, which left no time for schooling. Valente also served briefly in the military and formed lasting friendships during that time.

Valente married Maria Augusta Escada and had four daughters: Guiomar, Esperança, Conceição, and Ana. Even in his later years, he remained active, keeping goats until he was 103.

In his later years, he was supported by his daughters, especially Esperança, with whom he lived. Despite his age, he remained independent, walking around the village and maintaining a hearty appetite, particularly for soup, coffee, chocolate, and milk.

Joaquim Valente passed away in Quinta de Gonçalo Martins (Marmeleiro), on 10 May 2021, at the age of 110 years, 100 days.

RECOGNITION

At the time of his passing, he was the second-oldest living man in Portugal, after Albano Andrade.

His age was verified by Gabriel Lemos, and validated by the ESO on 22 March 2023.

ATTRIBUTION

* “Valente no nome e na idade” – Jornal A Guarda, 19 October 2018

* “Morreu um dos homens mais velhos do concelho da Guarda” – Marmeleiro CCS, 12 May 2021

GALLERY