BIOGRAPHY

Gertrude Kingston was born in Farnborough, Hampshire, England, on 1 February 1909. One of her earliest memories was of her father leaving to fight in the First World War. She vividly remembered returning home from school in Aldermaston in December 1917 to the heartbreaking news that he had been killed in action. Afterward, the family moved to Yattendon, where she found work at Barn Close. It was there that her musical talent flourished; she learned to play the violin and cello. She also participated in the Newbury Musical Festival at the Corn Exchange, performing with a choir composed of villagers from Yattendon and Frilsham.

In 1954, having learned typing during her time at Barn Close, she took a position at the School of Military Survey in Hermitage. It was there she met Ernie, who would become her husband. They married in February 1960. Ernie passed away in April 1983. She was a lifelong member of the Women’s Institute and served as secretary of the Yattendon and Frilsham branch. For many years, she also typed the village newsletter, The Broadsheet, using old stencils and a Roneo machine. In addition, she regularly assisted with the Yattendon and Frilsham Fete. As her health began to decline, she relocated several times, eventually moving to Enbridge House Care Home in 2009.

Gertrude Kingston passed away in Woolton Hill, Hampshire, England, on 28 July 2021, at the age of 112 years, 177 days.

RECOGNITION

On 28 May 2020, following the passing of 112-year-old Bob Weighton, she became the oldest living person in Hampshire.

Kingston’s age was verified by Dr. Andrew Holmes and Chris Law, and was validated by the ESO on 31 May 2020.

Kingston became the oldest living person in the United Kingdom on 6 June 2021, following the passing of 112-year-old Lilian Priest. She held the title for almost two months, until her own passing, when she was succeeded by Mollie Walker.

ATTRIBUTION

* “111-year-old Woolton Hill resident Gertie receives coronavirus vaccine” – NewburyToday, 23 January 2021

* “North Hampshire resident celebrates 112th birthday with cake and champagne” – NewburyToday, 6 February 2021

GALLERY