John Tinniswood

BIOGRAPHY

John Tinniswood was born in Liverpool, Merseyside, England, UK, on 26 August 1912.

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. During his time in the army, he met his wife, Blodwen, at a dance in Liverpool. The couple married in 1942, and their only child, Susan, was born in 1943. The couple were married for 44 years until Blodwen died 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.

In 2019, he told The Mirror that fish and chips were his favorite dish. After being recognized as the world’s oldest (known) living man, he commented that the secret to his long life is “pure luck.” He was unfazed by his newfound status, stating, “It doesn’t make any difference to me, not at all. I accept it for what it is.” At that time, he was still able to perform most daily tasks independently – he got out of bed unassisted, listened to the radio to keep up with the news, and still managed his own finances.

Tinniswood currently lives in a care home in Southport, Merseyside, England.

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RECOGNITION

Following the death of 108-year-old Harry Fransman on 25 September 2020, Tinniswood became the oldest known living man in the UK according to Oldest in Britain.

His age was verified by Stefan Maglov, and validated by LongeviQuest on 26 January 2023. His age was previously validated by the European Supercentenarian Organisation (ESO).

On 1 June 2024, following the passing of 112-year-old Georges Thomas of France, he became the oldest living man in Europe.

On 29 June 2024, following the passing of 112-year-old Shi Ping of China, he became the world’s oldest living man. Shi Ping’s age is currently under review. It was initially believed that Tinniswood assumed the title on 2 April, following the passing of Juan Vicente Pérez Mora of Venezuela.