BIOGRAPHY

Karen Marie Jespersen was born in Torrild, a village located near the town of Odder, on 5 May 1889, to parents Hans and Petrine Marie Ryberg. One of 10 siblings, she began working at the age of 14 to help support her family. In 1914, she married Jens Emil Jespersen, and later settled in Aarhus with their son. The couple were together for 55 years until Jens Emil’s death in 1969.

Even after turning 110, she continued to live independently in her own home, where the only assistance she received came from a weekly visit from a cleaner, and food deliveries from her family. In the autumn of 1999, however, she decided to move into a nursing home as her vision began to worsen.

Karen Jespersen passed away in Aabyhoj, Aarhus, Denmark on 4 August 2000, at the age of 111 years, 91 days. Reportedly, she had been in good health up until shortly before her death, and was still going for outdoor walks with the assistance of a helper. She was survived by two grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

RECOGNITION

Her age was verified by Jimmy Lindberg, and was validated by LongeviQuest on 25 May 2024.

ATTRIBUTION

* “Danmarks ældste er død” – Jyllands-Posten, 9 August 2000

GALLERY