BIOGRAPHY

Maggie Kidd was born in Stephens, Georgia, USA, on 8 December 1905 (claimed 1904), as the eleventh of twelve children born to Lucy and William “Doc” Brown. Maggie’s father earned the nickname “Doc” from his neighbors because of his reputation for helping anyone in need. As Maggie grew up, she developed a similar reputation, never hesitating to share whatever she had — even when she had very little herself.

Her parents owned a farm in Stephens, which became a welcoming home for any family members in need. Maggie continued this tradition when she took over the farm, offering shelter to relatives whenever they needed it. She even helped raise her grand-niece. Her parents were also active members of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Stephens.

On 30 November 1940, at the age of 34, Maggie married Willie Kidd. Together, they had two children, Rosalyn and John, and continued working on her parents’ farm. Maggie and Willie farmed the land until 1961, when they decided to downsize and focus on gardening. Her husband passed away in 1962 from complications related to diabetes. Maggie remained on the same land until 1989.

She credited her long life to God and the hard work of farm living, and that her secret to looking young was drinking plenty of water, believing it kept the skin healthy and beautiful. Even at 113 years old, she was able to manage basic daily tasks with very little assistance. She could move around the house and feed herself independently, despite her advanced age.

Maggie Kidd passed away in Riverdale, Georgia, USA on 8 July 2019, at the age of 113 years, 212 days.

RECOGNITION

On 10 November 2017, following the passing of 114-year-old Ila Jones, she became the oldest (known) living person in the U.S. state of Georgia, at the age of 111 years, 337 days.

Kidd’s age was validated by the Gerontology Research Group on 2 July 2019.

ATTRIBUTION

* “A Tribute to Maggie Katie Brown Kidd” – Vote Smart, 17 November 2004

* “Georgia woman celebrates 114th birthday” – Fox 32, 4 December 2018

GALLERY