Tribute to Sister Inah Canabarro: The Beloved 116-Year-Old Superfan and Teacher
Sister Inah Canabarro, World’s Oldest Living Person and Beloved Soccer Superfan, Passes Away at 116
Sister Inah Canabarro, a cherished Brazilian nun and the world’s oldest living person, has passed away at the age of 116, her religious congregation announced. Canabarro died peacefully at home on Wednesday, with her nephew revealing that her body had “gradually stopped” functioning without any major illnesses reported.
Born on May 27, 1907, in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, Canabarro was not only a devoted member of her faith but also a passionate supporter of Sport Club Internacional, a professional soccer team based in Porto Alegre. Known for her vibrant spirit, she celebrated her birthdays with a cake shaped like the team’s stadium, proudly donning the team’s scarf during her last birthday celebration.
Her love for soccer was reciprocated by the club, which consistently acknowledged her special day and expressed condolences following her passing. “We bid farewell to Sister, celebrating her legacy of spirituality and compassion and wishing strength to her friends and family,” the team posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Canabarro often spoke about the connection she felt with her team, emphasizing its representation of the people. “Whether rich or poor, it doesn’t matter—it’s for the people,” she remarked, reflecting her deep-rooted belief in community and inclusivity.
Despite her advanced age, Canabarro maintained good health for most of her life, only requiring a walker at the age of 110 due to mobility issues. Remarkably, she recovered from a COVID-19 hospitalization in October 2022, making her one of the oldest known survivors of the virus. Her longevity was attributed to her strong Catholic faith, which she credited as a cornerstone of her life.
In a notable moment of recognition, Canabarro was honored by Pope Francis on her 110th birthday, a testament to her impact both within her community and beyond. She took the title of the world’s oldest living person following the death of Japan’s Tomiko Itooka, who also passed away at 116 in December.
As the world mourns her passing, the title of the oldest living person now belongs to Ethel Caterham, a 115-year-old woman from Britain. Sister Inah Canabarro leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and an unwavering passion for soccer, reminding us all of the joy that community and connection can bring.
